State performance report shows STCC advances economic mobility, student success
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Springfield Technical Community College continues to strengthen its role as a leading engine of economic mobility and workforce development in Western Massachusetts, according to statewide data featured on the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education’s Public Higher Education Performance Measurement Reporting System (PMRS).
The PMRS dashboard highlights institutional progress across four key areas:
- Access & Affordability
- Student Success & Completion
- Economic Mobility
- Fiscal Stewardship
STCC’s performance in these areas underscores its mission to provide high-quality, accessible education while preparing students for in-demand careers across the region.
In parallel, the Healey-Driscoll Administration on Nov. 19 released a first-of-its kind state report on post-college earnings for students who attended Massachusetts’ 29 public colleges and universities.
The report shows that, five years after graduation, graduates of Massachusetts public colleges or universities make $20,000 to $30,000 more per year than their peers who did not pursue higher education. Those who pursue fields of study like health sciences, STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) and the trades, many of which are offered at STCC, saw the biggest earnings boost.
The release of the report, The Earnings Outcomes of Public Postsecondary Education in Massachusetts, kicks off the launch of new post-college earnings metrics that will be updated annually in the Department of Higher Education’s (DHE) Performance Measurement Reporting System (PMRS). PMRS is a public dashboard that tracks student success and other key performance indicators for each community college and state university in Massachusetts.
The report shows that median earnings five years after completing college are over $61,000 a year for those with associate degrees and $72,000 a year for bachelor’s degree completers. By comparison, students with a high school diploma who did not attend college earn about just over $42,000 annually. The earnings data does not include certain professions, such as self-employed individuals and military personnel, and detailed information about population measured and metrics used are available in the report.
The report includes earnings data by demographics and field of study, and it shows that while those with some college and no credential may see a slight earnings boost, earnings are far greater for those who complete a degree. This was a driving factor behind Governor Healey’s efforts to make community college free for anyone aged 25 and older in her first year in office – MassReconnect has made it easier for older students to return to school and complete their degree.
I am struck by the remarkable changes across higher education. Simultaneously, the way the college has responded and adapted during these times is a testament to our collective will and talents.John B. Cook, President, STCC
As Massachusetts continues to expand college affordability initiatives with support from the Massachusetts legislature, including MassEducate for residents who never earned a bachelor’s degree, STCC remains unique as the only technical community college in the Commonwealth, with this renewed focus on accessible and affordable higher education options.
The PMRS data framework emphasizes equitable access, and STCC’s enrollment of large numbers of first-generation students, adult learners and students from historically underrepresented groups positions the college as a vital entry point into higher education.
STCC’s affordability is further supported by flexible learning formats, including hybrid and online programs, which meet the needs of working adults and parents returning to school.
STCC’s commitment to student achievement aligns with the PMRS goal of increasing college completion statewide. The college’s priorities – outlined in its Strategic Plan for 2023-2028 – focus on improving persistence, boosting graduation rates, elevating its technical mission and expanding transfer pathways.
From STEM programs including cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing and HVAC, as well as Social Work, Business Administration and 26 allied health programs unmatched in New England for depth and breadth, STCC has strengthened academic support structures such as tutoring, Supplemental Instruction and advising. These initiatives contribute to higher levels of student retention and successful degree completion, especially among students who enroll immediately after high school and those returning as adult learners. The accumulation of a systems-approach to STCC student success is evident in PMRS indicators that includes on-time credit accumulation. For a college like STCC with the majority of students attending part-time, this is an metric of student persistence. Over the most recent ten-year window, STCC went from the bottom third of the 15 community colleges in Massachusetts with on-time credit accumulation, to now being tied for the lead.
The PMRS also emphasizes economic mobility. STCC’s programming is closely aligned with high-need occupations across the region. While the state is still finalizing and releasing institution-specific earnings data as part of its new reporting model, the PMRS site emphasizes that colleges like STCC will be measured by outcomes such as:
- Post-enrollment earnings for students who enroll immediately after high school
- Post-enrollment earnings for students enrolling at age 25 or older
- Degree and certificate production in fields tied to workforce demand
STCC’s focused investment in high-demand sectors, including cybersecurity, engineering technologies, health sciences and advanced manufacturing, positions graduates for strong wage growth and career advancement. The college’s partnerships with employers, internship opportunities, and hands-on training help ensure students are prepared for jobs that meet regional and statewide workforce needs, and using headcount alone, STCC celebrates some of the highest number of healthcare graduates each year across the community college segment.
The PMRS framework also evaluates how well institutions use public resources, ensuring taxpayer investment directly supports student success. STCC’s efficient operations and data-driven decision-making reflect its commitment to transparency, accountability and sustainable growth.
As the state continues to refine and publish new economic mobility data for each public college, STCC stands ready to demonstrate the measurable value of its programs and the long-term impact of its graduates. Reflecting on the past decade, earlier this fall STCC President John B. Cook stated “I am struck by the remarkable changes across higher education. Simultaneously, the way the college has responded and adapted during these times is a testament to our collective will and talents.”
Cook added, “With a mission of access and affordability, the PMRS framework demonstrates the transformative power of public higher education and the value of STCC to support our communities.”
Interested in applying to STCC? Visit stcc.edu/apply or call Admissions at (413) 755-3333.
About Springfield Technical Community College
STCC, the Commonwealth's only technical community college, continues the pioneering legacy of the Springfield Armory with comprehensive and technical education in manufacturing, STEM, healthcare, business, social services, and the liberal arts. STCC's highly regarded workforce, certificate, degree, and transfer programs are the most affordable in Springfield and provide unequaled opportunity for the vitality of Western Massachusetts. Founded in 1967, the college – a designated Hispanic Serving Institution – seeks to close achievement gaps among students who traditionally face societal barriers. STCC supports students as they transform their lives through intellectual, cultural, and economic engagement while becoming thoughtful, committed and socially responsible graduates.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jim Danko, (413) 755-4812, jdanko@stcc.edu