Precision Metal Working at Dakota County Technical College
a smaller institution with 2,083 students in Rosemount, MN.
Program Analysis
Dakota County Technical College Precision Metal Working graduates command $50,464/yr out of the gate, well above the $36,869 national median. That 37% premium suggests the program's industry reputation carries real labor-market weight.
The 82.3x earnings multiple means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition cost by an order of magnitude. Trade programs often deliver strong ratios, and this one is a standout.
With only 13% of typical job tasks exposed to AI, the scenario spread is tight at 0%. Career paths for Precision Metal Working are among the more automation-resistant trades we analyze.
Loan repayment is a non-issue here — $5,500 in median debt clears fast against $50,464 in annual earnings.
A #34 ranking out of 355 Precision Metal Working programs nationally puts Dakota County Technical College in the top 10% — a strong but not elite position.
Earnings growth is modest: $50,464 to $52,690 over five years (4% gain). This trade may have a lower salary ceiling than high-growth professions.
With 131 registered apprenticeships mapped to Precision Metal Working, graduates have substantial options for hands-on training paths that pay from day one.
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 Metal Working 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% |
About Precision Metal Working Careers
You’ll begin your career with your hands on the tools of the trade. As a welder, you could be fusing steel beams high on a construction site or meticulously joining pipes for critical infrastructure. As a machinist, you might work from complex blueprints, operating lathes and mills to craft high-tolerance parts for the aerospace or medical industries. Most paths start with an apprenticeship, learning directly from seasoned professionals on the job.