The Central Workforce Development Region (CWDR) has announced an exciting new partnership with the Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development (DHEWD) to launch the Career Opportunity Training for Youth (COTY) program. This federally funded initiative is designed to equip high school students in Columbia Public Schools with the skills and work experience they need to transition seamlessly into the workforce after graduation.
At the heart of this project is David “DJ” Johnson, who has recently taken on the role of Youth Career Coach with DHEWD. Johnson brings over 35 years of experience in youth education and program management, making him an invaluable asset to the COTY program. His new role involves recruiting students, coordinating their interests with local businesses, and ensuring they receive the on-the-job training and support they need to succeed.
“The opportunity to directly impact young people’s lives by helping them transition from school to the workforce is what drew me to this position,” says Johnson. His passion for youth development is evident in every aspect of his work, and his extensive background uniquely qualifies him to lead this initiative.
The COTY program is specifically tailored to high school students who may not be pursuing higher education but are eager to enter the workforce. “Our goal is to assist these students by providing them with the proper skills and training that will prepare them for their future careers,” Johnson explains. The program emphasizes work readiness, offering paid work experiences, job skills training, career planning, and resume building, among other resources.
The Workforce Link Podcast offers forward thinking conversations for the workforce, linking employers and job seekers to a brighter tomorrow. Check out the details here…
One of the key components of the COTY program is its strong collaboration with Columbia Public Schools and area employers. Johnson is actively working to establish relationships with local businesses to create worksites where students can gain hands-on experience. “Columbia Public Schools has partnered with DHEWD to assist with recruiting students, providing resources like workforce staff, and offering school facilities to support the program,” he says.
Despite the promising outlook for the COTY program, Johnson acknowledges the challenges that lie ahead. “One of the biggest challenges is raising awareness within the community about the services we’re offering,” he notes. To address this, Johnson has been meeting with service agencies, businesses, and community leaders to spread the word about the opportunities available through COTY.
Johnson’s experience with similar programs, such as the Columbia Builds Youth Program, has prepared him to navigate these challenges effectively. As the Senior Advisor for Columbia Builds Youth, he was responsible for job readiness training and coordinating work experiences for students, a role that mirrors many of his responsibilities with COTY.
The success of the COTY program will be measured by key performance indicators, including the number of students recruited and their progress through the program. “Our goal for the first year is to recruit 50 students,” Johnson says. The program’s success will be tracked in partnership with the Central Ozarks Private Industry Council (COPIC) and Columbia Public Schools, ensuring that each student’s journey is carefully monitored and supported. Johnson will be working closely with Brandi Chick, a Career Consultant with COPIC, to ensure the program’s objectives are met effectively.
Looking ahead, Johnson is focused on expanding the network of businesses participating in the COTY program and refining the strategies for recruiting and supporting students. “We’ll be meeting with Columbia Public Schools to discuss the best practices for recruiting students and providing the supportive services they need to succeed,” he explains.
This collaborative effort between the Central Region, DHEWD, Columbia Public Schools, and local businesses represents a vital step in preparing the next generation for the workforce, fostering responsibility, accountability, and self-sufficiency among youth.
For businesses interested in participating in the COTY program or for more information, please contact David at (573) 441-5061 or email David.Johnson@dhewd.mo.gov.