Precision Metal Working: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Prepares students for advanced roles in the manufacturing and engineering sectors through hands-on training in high-accuracy metal fabrication and machining processes. This program emphasizes technical precision, material science, and modern manufacturing technologies to equip learners with the skills needed to excel in industrial production environments.
- Advanced Machining Techniques: In-depth study of CNC milling, turning, and grinding operations, focusing on accuracy, toolpath optimization, and machine calibration for complex part production.
- Blueprint Reading and Technical Drafting: Develops the ability to interpret engineering drawings, tolerance specifications, and geometric dimensioning standards essential for precise fabrication.
- Material Science and Properties: Explores the behavior, selection, and processing of ferrous and non-ferrous metals, including heat treatment and surface finishing methods.
- Quality Control and Metrology: Teaches the use of precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, and coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) to ensure dimensional accuracy and compliance with industry standards.
- Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM): Applies software tools to generate toolpaths and automate machining processes, bridging design and production workflows.
- Manufacturing Safety and Best Practices: Instills protocols for equipment operation, personal protective equipment (PPE), and workplace safety in high-precision industrial settings.
Precision Metal Working Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Precision Metal Working Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Precision Metal Working degrees, including Metal Workers and Plastic Workers, 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 20,270 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metal Workers and Plastic Workers, All Other 51-4199 | $42,750 | $33,850 - $62,800 | 20,270 | $20.56 |
Precision Metal Working Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $34,410 in Tennessee to $63,470 in Washington—a 84% difference. The highest-paying states include Washington, New York, and Alabama. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 20,270 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 Precision Metal Working by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 17 institutions offering Precision Metal Working 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 Precision Metal Working is found at Central Virginia Community College (CVCC) (105 graduates), Wytheville Community College (WCC) (44 graduates), Southeastern Technical Institute (STI) (35 graduates), Mesalands Community College (MCC) (29 graduates), and New River Community College (NRCC) (22 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 340 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Central Virginia Community College (CVCC) |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
Certificate (≥2 yrs)
Other Award
|
105 | Lynchburg, Virginia | Public | centralvirginia.edu |
| Wytheville Community College (WCC) |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
Associate's
Other Award
|
44 | Wytheville, Virginia | Public | wcc.vccs.edu |
| Southeastern Technical Institute (STI) |
Other Award
|
35 | South Easton, Massachusetts | Public | stitech.edu |
| Mesalands Community College (MCC) |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
Associate's
|
29 | Tucumcari, New Mexico | Public | mesalands.edu |
| New River Community College (NRCC) |
Certificate (≥2 yrs)
Associate's
Other Award
|
22 | Dublin, Virginia | Public | nr.edu |
| Virginia Highlands Community College (VHCC) |
Associate's
Other Award
|
20 | Abingdon, Virginia | Public | vhcc.edu |
| Oakland Community College (OCC) |
Other Award
|
18 | Auburn Hills, Michigan | Public | oaklandcc.edu |
| Danville Community College (DCC) |
Certificate (≥2 yrs)
|
18 | Danville, Virginia | Public | danville.edu |
| George C Wallace State Community College |
Other Award
|
11 | Hanceville, Alabama | Public | wallacestate.edu |
| Tidewater Community College (TCC) |
Other Award
|
9 | Norfolk, Virginia | Public | tcc.edu |
| Southeast Community College Area (SCC) |
Associate's
|
7 | Lincoln, Nebraska | Public | southeast.edu |
| Brightpoint Community College |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
|
6 | Chester, Virginia | Public | brightpoint.edu |
| Southwest Virginia Community College (SWCC) |
Other Award
|
5 | Cedar Bluff, Virginia | Public | sw.edu |
| Delta College |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
Other Award
|
4 | University Center, Michigan | Public | delta.edu |
| Northwest State Community College (NSCC) |
Associate's
|
3 | Archbold, Ohio | Public | northweststate.edu |
| Cisco College |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
|
3 | Cisco, Texas | Public | cisco.edu |
| Highlands College of Montana Tech |
Associate's
|
1 | Butte, Montana | Public | mtech.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Precision Metal Working programs
How much can I earn with a Precision Metal Working degree?
Salaries for Precision Metal Working graduates vary by role and location. Metal Workers and Plastic Workers, All Other earn a median of $42,750 annually. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in Washington average $63,470 compared to $34,410 in Tennessee. Approximately 20,270 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 Precision Metal Working programs?
Currently 17 accredited institutions offer Precision Metal Working degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Central Virginia Community College (CVCC) (105 graduates), Wytheville Community College (WCC) (44 graduates), and Southeastern Technical Institute (STI) (35 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.
Is enrollment in Precision Metal Working growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have increased over the past decade, rising from 151 in 2010 to 340 in 2023-24. This represents a 125% increase overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with steady interest, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
What career paths are available with a Precision Metal Working degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Metal Workers and Plastic Workers, All Other. Related occupations employ approximately 20,270 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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