Heavy Equipment Technology at Western Technical College
with a smaller student body of 3,434 in La Crosse, WI.
Program Analysis
Graduates earn $46,591/yr, roughly in line with the $51,528 national median for Heavy Equipment Technology. The value proposition here depends on cost, not earnings.
With a 140.7x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 28% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Heavy Equipment Technology career paths face changes, but the trade's physical demands provide a buffer.
With first-year pay of $46,591 far exceeding the $8,969 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
A #22 ranking among 80 Heavy Equipment Technology programs places Western Technical College in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.
A 36% earnings increase from $46,591 to $63,596 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.
The 67 apprenticeship pathways connected to Heavy Equipment Technology 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 Heavy Equipment Technology graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elevator and escalator installers and repairers | $106,580 | +5.0% | 82% |
| Control and valve installers and repairers, except mechanical door | $74,690 | +1.3% | 87% |
| Rail car repairers | $65,680 | +2.8% | 90% |
Heavy Equipment Technology Career Guide
Explore what Heavy Equipment Technology graduates do, from entry-level roles to long-term career paths across 80 programs nationwide.
Compare & Explore
Heavy Equipment Technology Overview
Heavy Equipment Technology at Other Schools
Other Majors at Western Technical College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.