Measuring the Accountability of CTE Programs: Factors that Influence Postcollege Earnings among Community College Students

In this study specific factors were examined to determine their ability to influence fifth-year earnings of community college students in the Manufacturing/Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) career cluster and the Arts/Audiovisual/Technology/ Communication career cluster. State and national data sets from Iowa's Management Information System, unemployment insurance records, and the National Student Clearinghouse were utilized. Results revealed that gender, age, economic status, degree, and annual gain in earnings in the Manufacturing/STEM cluster were significant predictors of fifth-year earnings. Women and traditional-age students need to obtain an associate's degree to reduce the wage gap. Within the arts/audiovisual/technology/communication cluster, women need to obtain an associate's degree if they hope to earn wages comparable to men. Obtaining a credential is important, especially for women and traditional-age students. Students who leave without a degree find themselves earning less than those who received a degree. The article concludes with implications for future research.