Earn Your Certification with LUXX Beauty and Barber Institute!

In partnership with Career Opportunity Training for Youth (C.O.T.Y) & Columbia Public Schools.

Join the C.O.T.Y. program to gain essential skills and training for a successful career after graduation.

Train to become a professional in hair styling, makeup artistry, nail care, facials, hair cutting, perming, and relaxing

Classes Begin January 6, 2025

About the Program

Gain the skills needed to work as a Barber, Beautician, or Nail Technician with certification/licensure in the state of Missouri. 

Complete 1200 to 1500 hours of training and be ready to start your career in beauty. 

Eligibility Criteria

• Ages 16-24

• Must have at least 16 high school credits

• High School students can work toward their diploma while training

About C.O.T.Y.

The Career Opportunity Training for Youth (C.O.T.Y.) program is a federally funded initiative through the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development, designed to support Columbia Public School students in grades 9-12. Our mission is to provide work experience opportunities that equip students with the skills and training necessary for their future careers. By focusing on overcoming barriers to success, C.O.T.Y. aims to prepare youth for the workforce, fostering responsibility, accountability, and self-sufficiency.

Contact Us Today to Get Started

Phone

(573) 257.7678

Central Region News

Episode 82: Why Job Descriptions Are Scaring Away Good Candidates

Is your job description driving away top talent? In Episode 82 of The Workforce Link Podcast, we break down why job descriptions are quietly scaring away good candidates and six practical things you can do right now to fix them.

Audrain County Maintains Certified Work Ready Community Status

Audrain County has once again demonstrated its commitment to workforce excellence. Western District Commissioner Tracy R. Graham recently accepted the Certified Work Ready Community award for Program Year 2025, recognizing the county’s ongoing investment in a skilled, job-ready workforce.

Osage County Maintains Certified Work Ready Community Status

Osage County has once again demonstrated its commitment to workforce excellence. County Clerk Brooke Dudenhoeffer recently accepted the Certified Work Ready Community award for Program Year 2025, recognizing the county’s ongoing investment in building a skilled, job-ready workforce.

CWDB Member Tamara Tateosian Appointed to Missouri State Workforce Development Board

Congratulations to CWDB member Tamara Tateosian, CEO of the Callaway Chamber of Commerce, on her appointment to the Missouri State Workforce Development Board — confirmed by the Missouri Senate on April 15, 2026.

When the Plan Changes: Building Adaptability Into Your Work

Change is not the exception in workforce development — it is part of the job. Here is how Central Region team members can build adaptability into their work and stay grounded in the mission when circumstances shift.

From CNA to RN: How Natalie Plemmons Turned Her Dream Into a Career

When Natalie Plemmons came to the Job Center in 2024, she had a goal and a job — but needed support to get through nursing school. With help from three workforce programs, she graduated from State Fair Community College and started her RN career three days later.

From Part-Time Retail to Registered Nurse: Maria Wolfrum’s Story

With support from WIOA Adult, EDA, and Healthy Blue, Maria Wolfrum went from part-time retail work to a full-time career as a Registered Nurse — graduating from State Fair Community College and landing a position at Capital Region Medical Center.

How the Central Region Is Closing the Gap Between Employers and Job Seekers with Disabilities

The 4th annual AccessAbility Business Summit brought mid-Missouri employers, advocates, and job seekers together for a full day of education, connection, and inclusive hiring solutions. Here’s a look at what made May 7 a day worth celebrating.

Rolla Regional Spring Hiring Event Connects Job Seekers and Employers Across the Central Region

Around 80 job seekers and more than 40 employers gathered at the National Guard Armory in Rolla for the Rolla Regional Spring Hiring Event. The event created opportunities for networking, on-site interviews, and career exploration across multiple industries throughout the Central Region.

From Military Leadership to Management Career: How Rodney Richardson Found His Path in the Central Region

After 25+ years of military service, Rodney Richardson came home to Missouri ready to work — but unsure where to start. Through JVSG, Wagner-Peyser, and the Columbia Job Center team, he turned decades of leadership experience into a full-time management career.

Tune into the podcast

The Workforce Link Podcast with Sundi Jo Graham

The Workforce Link Podcast offers forward thinking conversations for the workforce, linking employers and job seekers to a brighter tomorrow. 

Hosted by Sundi Jo Graham from the Central Workforce Development Board, The Workforce Link covers job searching, resume and interview tips, leadership, personal development, and features interviews with industry leaders from the private and public sectors.

Contact Us

1107 Kingshighway, Rolla, MO 65401

(573) 426-6030

sundijo@cwdregion.com

In accordance with 29 CFR 38.9 (g)(3), Limited English Proficient (LEP) individuals will receive language assistance in all communications of vital information.

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EO Officer - Korin Ell

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