Engineering Technicians Outperform University Graduates in Salary Gains
Translated & summarized from Maariv by baba
A Ministry of Labor study shows graduates of two-year "Handasai" engineering technician programs earn significantly more than those with only a high school education, with salary increases up to 56% in software engineering. The AI revolution is impacting demand, leading to new technician programs in fields like cyber and AI implementation. Salary returns vary by demographic group, with specific fields showing higher advantages for Haredi and Arab men and women.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Engineering technician graduates earn up to 56% more in software engineering than high school-only individuals.
- Salary increases for technicians reach 24% within five years and 16% after 11 years.
- AI revolution is reshaping job demand, leading to new technician programs.
- Two-year technician programs focus on practical skills and employment integration.
- Salary returns differ significantly among Haredi and Arab men and women.
A new study by the Ministry of Labor reveals that graduates of "Handasai" (engineering technician) programs experience significant salary advantages, reaching up to a 56% increase in software engineering compared to those with only 12 years of schooling. The research indicates a consistent rise in earnings for these graduates within the first few years of employment, with a 24% salary increase within five years and a 16% increase after 11 years, relative to individuals with no post-secondary certification.
The rise in demand for engineering technicians is also influenced by the artificial intelligence revolution, which is reshaping job market needs. While AI is increasing opportunities in some technician roles, it is also decreasing demand in certain software professions, reflected in lower student enrollment in those fields. Colleges are responding by introducing new programs in areas like cyber security, safety, AI implementation, and specialized tracks within civil engineering, mechanical engineering, and industrial management.
These technician programs typically last around two years and emphasize practical application and rapid employment integration. This focus is evident in higher rates of practical training during studies and the reported high placement and salary rates for graduates. The salary returns vary among different demographic groups. For instance, Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) women show a particularly high return in software engineering, while Haredi men see benefits in civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering. Among Arab women, medical instrumentation stands out, and among Arab men, electronics and mechanical engineering are prominent.
Oren Tirosh, a labor market research expert at the Myers-Joint-Brookdale Institute, commented that the study demonstrates the substantial contribution of technological education to graduate earnings, while also highlighting significant differences across study fields and populations. He noted that systematic measurement of returns based on administrative data allows for evidence-based policy decisions at a detailed level.
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