Precision Metalworking at Chippewa Valley Technical College
a smaller institution with 4,127 students in Eau Claire, WI.
Program Analysis
Graduates of Chippewa Valley Technical College's Precision Metalworking program earn $48,638/yr in their first year — 32% above the $36,869 national median, a strong market signal for this institution.
Every dollar of tuition returns an estimated 118.7x in decade earnings — an exceptional ratio that places this among the highest-ROI Precision Metalworking programs nationally.
AI disruption models show minimal impact on this program's career paths. The gap between optimistic and pessimistic scenarios is just 13% — this trade's hands-on core resists automation.
At $9,250 in median debt against $48,638 in first-year earnings, graduates can expect to clear their loan balance quickly — a hallmark of affordable trade programs.
At #18 of 355 nationally, this is a top-5% Precision Metalworking program. Financial outcomes consistently outperform the vast majority of peers.
Five-year earnings of $57,152 are relatively flat compared to the $48,638 starting salary — typical of trades with stable but capped salary bands.
Precision Metalworking offers 131 registered apprenticeship pathways — an unusually broad set of earn-while-you-learn alternatives to the classroom track.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Precision Metalworking graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer numerically controlled tool programmers | $65,670 | +12.8% | 20% |
| Tool and die makers | $63,180 | -10.8% | 81% |
| Model makers, metal and plastic | $62,700 | -18.2% | 84% |
Precision Metalworking Career Guide
Explore what Precision Metalworking graduates do, from entry-level roles to long-term career paths across 355 programs nationwide.