Precision Metalworking at Lake Land College
a smaller institution with 2,492 students in Mattoon, IL.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $27,808 place Lake Land College below the $36,869 national median for Precision Metalworking — worth weighing against tuition and cost of living.
With a 72.0x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 9% spread between best and worst-case AI scenarios signals strong resilience. Most careers in Precision Metalworking involve physical, hands-on work that current AI cannot replicate.
A #174 ranking among 355 Precision Metalworking programs places Lake Land College in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.
The 131 apprenticeship pathways connected to Precision Metalworking reflect strong industry infrastructure for this trade. Apprenticeships typically lead to journeyman-level wages.
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
Precision Metalworking opens doors to multiple career tracks. Our pillar guide covers every mapped occupation with salary data and AI resilience ratings.