Nine young adults in Columbia, Missouri, are taking the next steps toward their careers after completing professional training through the Career Opportunity Training for Youth program.
Nine students from Extended Hair Academy in Columbia, Missouri, have earned professional certificates through the Career Opportunity Training for Youth (COTY) program, marking an important milestone in their career development.
The Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development (MDHEWD) recognized the graduates during a ceremony in Columbia, celebrating their dedication to completing the training and preparing for future employment opportunities.
The COTY program helps high school seniors and young adults up to age 24 develop practical skills, earn professional certificates, and gain valuable workplace experience.
COTY Graduates Build Skills Through Hands-On Training
Over eight weeks of classroom instruction at Extended Hair Academy, students learned professional styling techniques, including braiding, hair extensions, and wig making.
The training provided students with technical skills and knowledge they can use to pursue careers in the beauty industry.
Earning their professional certificates also creates opportunities for graduates to obtain a business license and develop a branding module as they explore employment and entrepreneurship.
“We are excited to recognize these graduates for the dedication they brought to earning this professional certification,” said Dr. Bennett Boggs, Commissioner of MDHEWD. “Their hard work, growth, and determination is inspiring, and we’re confident the training and hands-on experience they’ve gained will support them as they take the next steps in their careers.”
From Classroom Training to Paid Work Experience
Completing classroom instruction is only one part of the COTY program.
Following graduation, the nine students will complete 120 hours of paid work experience with partnering employers. This next phase gives graduates an opportunity to apply their skills in professional settings, develop workplace confidence, and build connections within their chosen industry.
The goal is to help participants transition into meaningful, full-time employment.
“This graduating class stepped into the program eager to prepare for the next stage of their careers,” said Julie Carter, Director of the Office of Workforce Development. “We’re grateful for our employer partners and look forward to expanding this opportunity so even more young people across Missouri can benefit.”
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Creating Career Opportunities for Young Missourians
The federally funded COTY program, supported by MDHEWD, connects young people in Mid-Missouri with career training and employment opportunities.
By combining professional instruction with paid work experience, the program helps participants develop skills that employers value while exploring potential career paths.
For employers, the program also creates opportunities to connect with emerging talent and support the development of Missouri’s future workforce.
The graduation of these nine students reflects the importance of connecting education, workforce training, and local employers to help young Missourians prepare for long-term career success.
Learn More About the COTY Program
Are you a young adult interested in career training, or an employer looking to support the next generation of workers?
The Career Opportunity Training for Youth program offers opportunities to gain professional skills, earn certificates, and participate in paid work experience.
Learn more: cwdregion.com/coty
Contact: David “DJ” Johnson, Youth Career Coach, at david.johnson@dhewd.mo.gov.
Together, we are strengthening communities through workforce development efforts.