Precision Metalworking at Lewis and Clark Community College

Godfrey, IL · Public · Certificate · Precision Metal Working

a smaller institution with 2,252 students in Godfrey, IL.

Program Analysis

Graduates earn $37,195/yr, roughly in line with the $36,869 national median for Precision Metalworking. The value proposition here depends on cost, not earnings.

With a 109.6x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 0% 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.

Lewis and Clark Community College ranks #67 among 355 Precision Metalworking programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.

The limited growth from $37,195 to $37,349 over five years suggests earnings in this trade plateau relatively early in one's career.

The 131 apprenticeship pathways connected to Precision Metalworking reflect strong industry infrastructure for this trade. Apprenticeships typically lead to journeyman-level wages.

66 /100
TradeSchoolOutlook Score
65
Low End
66
Score
66
High End
Earnings $37,195/yr (1% vs median)
AI-Proof AI-Proof (87% shielded)
Job Market Very Large (164,200 openings/yr)

Earnings Overview

Projected 10-Year Earnings
$389K
1.0% annual growth
Earnings Multiple (In-State)
109.6x
10-year earnings ÷ tuition
Viable Career Paths
22 of 24
Occupations with strong AI resilience

Projected 10-Year Earnings

Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.

Program Tuition (In-State)
$3,552
Out-of-state: $12,552
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$37,349
0% growth from Year 1

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%
Computer numerically controlled tool programmers
$65,670
+12.8% growth 20% AI-proof
Tool and die makers
$63,180
-10.8% growth 81% AI-proof
Model makers, metal and plastic
$62,700
-18.2% growth 84% AI-proof

View all 24 career paths with full salary data →

Precision Metalworking Career Guide

Explore what Precision Metalworking graduates do, from entry-level roles to long-term career paths across 355 programs nationwide.

Read the full Precision Metalworking career guide →

Compare & Explore

Precision Metalworking Overview

Precision Metalworking at Other Schools

Other Majors at Lewis and Clark Community College

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the TradeSchoolOutlook Score for Precision Metalworking at Lewis and Clark Community College?
A score of 66/100 puts this program in competitive territory — solid outcomes, though not at the top of the Precision Metalworking field.
Will AI replace Precision Metalworking jobs?
This is one of the more automation-resistant trades. Precision Metalworking work requires physical skill and on-site presence — qualities AI cannot provide. Lewis and Clark Community College's score of 66/100 reflects this durability.
Why does Lewis and Clark Community College rank so high for Precision Metalworking?
Among 355 Precision Metalworking programs, Lewis and Clark Community College's #67 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.
What apprenticeship pathways exist for Precision Metalworking graduates?
There are 131 registered apprenticeships connected to Precision Metalworking occupations, such as Cnc Operator - Milling and Cnc Operator - Milling And Turning. The earn-while-you-learn model means no tuition debt and immediate income, though the training period is typically longer.
How many job openings are there for Precision Metalworking graduates?
At 164,200 annual openings, Precision Metalworking has a very large employment base. Lewis and Clark Community College graduates benefit from broad demand, particularly given infrastructure investment and steady replacement demand as workers retire.
Data from College Scorecard, BLS, and AI resilience research. Methodology & sources →