Precision Metal Working, Other.
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Debt to Income Ratio
Why Precision Metal Working, Other. stands out: With a debt-to-income ratio of just 27.1%, graduates of this program typically enjoy manageable student loan payments compared to their first-year earnings. This low ratio means that, on average, students who complete Precision Metal Working, Other. can expect to pay off their student debt faster and with less financial stress than most other fields. Programs with a DTI below 0.5 are considered excellent by financial experts, making this degree a smart investment for your future.
For example, with a median salary of $34893 and average student debt of $9458, the financial outlook for Precision Metal Working, Other. graduates is especially strong in .
Key Insights
Considering Precision Metal Working, Other.? This major is known for its blend of hands-on learning and career-ready skills. Graduates often start out earning $34893, and with an average student debt of $9458, the debt-to-income ratio is 0.27—a great sign for your financial future.
With more than 59352 students earning this degree each year, you’ll be part of a vibrant community. Whether you’re interested in job security, making a difference, or just want a degree that opens doors, Precision Metal Working, Other. is a smart choice. Don’t forget: internships, networking, and campus involvement can make your experience even more valuable.
Degree Overview
Precision Metal Working, Other (CIP 48.0599) is a highly skilled manufacturing and trades field focused on shaping, cutting, forming, and finishing metal components with extreme accuracy and tight tolerances. This classification covers specialized and emerging precision metalworking programs that fall outside traditional machining, tool-and-die, or welding tracks. Precision metal workers create the parts that make modern industry possible—from aerospace components and medical devices to robotics, automotive systems, and advanced manufacturing equipment.
For a degree search site, Precision Metal Working, Other represents craftsmanship, technical mastery, and long-term industrial relevance. As manufacturing becomes more automated and precise, the need for skilled professionals who understand metal behavior, tolerances, and advanced fabrication techniques continues to grow. This degree appeals to students who want a hands-on, high-skill career with strong wages, low automation risk, and opportunities in advanced and specialized industries.
What Is a Precision Metal Working Degree?
A Precision Metal Working, Other degree or certificate is a workforce-focused technical program that prepares students to manufacture high-accuracy metal components using advanced tools, machines, and processes. Programs under the “Other” designation often emphasize niche fabrication methods, hybrid techniques, or emerging technologies not covered by standard machining or welding programs.
This degree typically focuses on:
- Precision cutting, shaping, and forming of metals
- Measurement, tolerances, and quality control
- Manual and computer-assisted metalworking processes
- Material properties and metal behavior
- Safety, documentation, and production standards
Community colleges, technical institutes, and advanced manufacturing centers offer this degree to:
- Prepare students for precision fabrication and metalworking roles
- Support advanced manufacturing and industrial production
- Address shortages of skilled precision metal workers
- Train technicians for high-tolerance and specialty applications
These programs emphasize accuracy, repeatability, and disciplined craftsmanship.
What Will You Learn?
Students learn how raw metal becomes a finished, functional component. You’ll study how different metals respond to cutting, heat, pressure, and stress, and how to achieve precise dimensions and surface finishes.
The curriculum emphasizes hands-on practice with precision tools and equipment. Students learn to interpret technical drawings, set up machines, perform controlled operations, and verify accuracy using precision measuring instruments. Because even small errors can render parts unusable, programs emphasize patience, attention to detail, and quality assurance.
Core Skills You’ll Build
Graduates typically develop skills such as:
- Precision measurement and metrology—micrometers, calipers, gauges
- Metal cutting and shaping techniques—high-accuracy operations
- Blueprint and technical drawing interpretation—tolerances and specs
- Machine setup and adjustment—precision alignment
- Material selection and metal properties—steel, aluminum, alloys
- Quality control and inspection—verifying exact specifications
- Tooling and fixture usage—repeatable accuracy
- Shop safety and process discipline—controlled environments
These skills are essential for producing components that meet exacting standards.
Topics You May Explore
Because this is an “Other” classification, coursework varies by program but often includes:
- Introduction to Precision Metalworking: tools and techniques
- Metal Cutting and Forming Processes: turning, milling, shaping
- Advanced Measurement and Tolerances: precision inspection
- Materials Science for Metalworkers: metal behavior and selection
- Surface Finishing and Treatment: smoothness and durability
- Tooling, Jigs, and Fixtures: accuracy and repeatability
- Quality Assurance and Control: inspection standards
- Shop Mathematics and Precision Calculations: measurements
- Applied Precision Metalworking Lab: real-world fabrication
Programs often align with aerospace, medical, defense, and advanced manufacturing sectors.
What Jobs Can You Get With This Degree?
A Precision Metal Working, Other degree prepares students for specialized fabrication and production roles where accuracy is critical. Advancement is based on skill, experience, and trust.
Common career paths include:
- Precision Metal Worker or Fabricator: high-tolerance components
- Machining or Manufacturing Technician: advanced production
- Tooling or Fixture Technician: support manufacturing accuracy
- Quality Control or Inspection Technician: precision verification
- Aerospace or Medical Manufacturing Technician: regulated industries
- Prototype or Custom Fabrication Specialist: low-volume precision work
- Long-Term Path: master craftsperson, supervisor, or manufacturing specialist
Precision metalworkers are often among the most trusted professionals on the shop floor.
Where Can You Work?
Graduates work in environments where exact metal components are required:
- Advanced manufacturing and machining facilities
- Aerospace and defense contractors
- Medical device and laboratory equipment manufacturers
- Automotive and robotics production plants
- Energy, optics, and instrumentation companies
- Prototype, R&D, and custom fabrication shops
- Specialty metalworking and fabrication firms
Precision metal workers support industries where failure is not acceptable.
How Much Can You Earn?
Earnings depend on specialization, industry, and experience.
Typical ranges include:
- Entry-level precision metal workers: often $45,000–$60,000
- Experienced precision fabricators or technicians: commonly $60,000–$85,000
- Senior specialists, inspectors, or master craftspeople: can reach $90,000–$125,000+
High-tolerance industries and specialized certifications can significantly increase compensation.
Is This Degree Hard?
Precision Metal Working, Other is considered technically demanding and detail-intensive. Academically, coursework is applied, but success requires patience, concentration, and comfort working to exact measurements. The challenge lies in consistently achieving accuracy and repeatability rather than physical strength alone.
Mistakes are part of learning, but discipline and precision are essential for success.
Who Should Consider This Degree?
This degree may be a strong fit if you:
- Enjoy working with tools and materials at a fine level
- Have strong attention to detail and patience
- Like creating precise, high-quality components
- Want a high-skill trade with strong demand
- Prefer hands-on, craftsmanship-focused careers
How to Prepare in High School
To prepare for a precision metalworking program:
- Take math, geometry, physics, and technical education courses
- Develop strong measurement, spatial reasoning, and problem-solving skills
- Learn basic tool use and shop safety practices
- Participate in STEM, shop, or manufacturing-focused programs if available
- Practice patience, accuracy, and disciplined work habits
Precision Metal Working, Other (CIP 48.0599) is a high-skill, future-resistant degree for students who want to work where accuracy matters most. It provides access to advanced industries, strong earning potential, and long-term career stability. For those who value craftsmanship, precision, and technical excellence, this degree offers a powerful and respected pathway in modern manufacturing.
Personality Fit (RIASEC Profile)
Official assessment tool by the U.S. Department of Labor