Environmental Control Technologies at Southern Careers Institute-Harlingen
a smaller institution with 437 students in Harlingen, TX.
Program Analysis
Southern Careers Institute-Harlingen's Environmental Control Technologies graduates start at $32,421/yr, trailing the $38,197 national average by 15%. The program's value hinges on affordability.
The 10% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Environmental Control Technologies career paths face changes, but the trade's physical demands provide a buffer.
Loan repayment is a non-issue here — $9,500 in median debt clears fast against $32,421 in annual earnings.
A #53 ranking among 63 Environmental Control Technologies programs places Southern Careers Institute-Harlingen in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.
The limited growth from $32,421 to $36,986 over five years suggests earnings in this trade plateau relatively early in one's career.
The 30 apprenticeship pathways connected to Environmental Control Technologies 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 Environmental Control Technologies graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering technologists and technicians, except drafters, all other | $77,390 | +1.5% | 76% |
| Heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers | $59,810 | +8.1% | 89% |
| Environmental engineering technologists and technicians | $58,890 | +1.2% | 59% |
About Environmental Control Technologies Careers
Your career in environmental control begins with essential, hands-on work. One day, you could be in a homeowner's basement, using wrenches and a multimeter to diagnose and repair a furnace. The next, you might be on a commercial rooftop installing a new air conditioning unit, connecting ductwork and refrigerant lines. Alternatively, you could find yourself at a municipal water treatment plant, operating complex machinery, monitoring control panels, and testing water samples to ensure community safety. These are the core, in-demand jobs where you'll build your foundation.
Read the full Environmental Control Technologies career guide →
Compare & Explore
Environmental Control Technologies Overview
Environmental Control Technologies at Other Schools
Other Majors at Southern Careers Institute-Harlingen
Trade Certificate vs. Bachelor's Degree
Weigh shorter time-to-career against higher earning ceilings. The numbers tell the story.