Composite Materials Technology: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Prepared for careers at the forefront of advanced materials innovation, this program equips students with foundational engineering principles and hands-on technical expertise essential for supporting professionals in the design, production, and application of composite materials across high-performance industries. Graduates are trained to contribute effectively in sectors including aerospace, automotive, marine, biomedical engineering, and renewable energy.
- Computer-Aided Design and Drafting (CAD/CAM): Mastery of digital modeling tools used to create precise technical drawings and simulations for composite part development and manufacturing workflows.
- Composite Materials and Processes: In-depth study of fiber-reinforced polymers, matrix systems, and fabrication techniques such as layup, vacuum bagging, and autoclave curing.
- Composite Manufacturing: Practical training in the systematic production of composite components using controlled environments and industry-standard processes.
- Composite Repair Techniques: Instruction in diagnosing damage and executing durable, code-compliant repairs to maintain structural integrity in critical applications.
- Material Science Fundamentals: Exploration of the physical and chemical properties of materials, including strength, durability, thermal behavior, and failure mechanisms in composite systems.
- Mold Manufacturing and Production: Skills in designing, constructing, and maintaining molds used to shape composite parts with precision and repeatability.
- Composite Maintenance Protocols: Understanding of inspection standards, non-destructive testing methods, and maintenance schedules for safe, long-term operation of composite structures.
Composite Materials Technology Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Composite Materials Technology Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Composite Materials Technology degrees, including Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 64,410 professionals.
National Average Salaries
Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
---|---|---|---|---|
Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other 17-3029 | $77,390 | $47,010 - $114,630 | 64,410 | $37.21 |
Composite Materials Technology Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $58,350 in Vermont to $109,120 in District of Columbia—a 87% difference. The highest-paying states include District of Columbia, New Mexico, and Maryland. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 64,410 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Composite Materials Technology by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 8 institutions offering Composite Materials Technology programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Composite Materials Technology is found at Davis Technical College (DATC) (49 graduates), The Fab School (27 graduates), Ogden-Weber Technical College (19 graduates), Everett Community College (EvCC) (5 graduates), and Eastern Florida State College (EFSC) (3 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 108 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Davis Technical College (DATC) |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
Other Award
|
49 | Kaysville, Utah | Public | davistech.edu |
The Fab School |
Other Award
|
27 | Rancho Cucamonga, California | Private | thefabschool.com |
Ogden-Weber Technical College |
Other Award
|
19 | Ogden, Utah | Public | otech.edu |
Everett Community College (EvCC) |
Other Award
|
5 | Everett, Washington | Public | everettcc.edu |
Eastern Florida State College (EFSC) |
Other Award
|
3 | Melbourne, Florida | Public | easternflorida.edu |
Pinellas Technical College |
Other Award
|
3 | Clearwater, Florida | Public | myptc.edu |
Enterprise State Community College (ESCC) |
Associate's
|
1 | Enterprise, Alabama | Public | escc.edu |
Arkansas State University (ASUMH) |
Other Award
|
1 | Mountain Home, Arkansas | Public | asumh.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Composite Materials Technology programs
How much can I earn with a Composite Materials Technology degree?
Salaries for Composite Materials Technology graduates vary by role and location. Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other earn a median of $77,390 annually. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in District of Columbia average $109,120 compared to $58,350 in Vermont. Approximately 64,410 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Composite Materials Technology programs?
Currently 8 accredited institutions offer Composite Materials Technology degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Davis Technical College (DATC) (49 graduates), The Fab School (27 graduates), and Ogden-Weber Technical College (19 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
What career paths are available with a Composite Materials Technology degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other. Related occupations employ approximately 64,410 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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