The Coahoma Community College Division of Career and Technical Education (CTE) has made concerted efforts to offer elevated instruction and provide world-class resources to its students. From the addition of new programs to refreshed and updated spaces, the division has doubled down on its commitment to student success.
Students who complete programs in the division must obtain state-mandated licensures to work in the fields that CTE prepares students to be employed. The measure ensures that program completers enter the workplace as competent and capable professionals.
Following the close of the 2021-2022 academic year, the division reported that its
Barbering/Stylist program had a passing rate of 94%, Cosmetology had a 93% pass rate,
and Commercial Truck Driving saw 100% of its students pass their State Board and Class
A exams.
Dr. Larry Webster, dean of Career and Technical Education, shared that these passing rates are essential not only for the students but also for the future of CCC.
"High pass rates are attached to programs' sustainability, and it also, directly and indirectly, correlates with the quality of instruction our students receive," said Webster. "High pass rates are also directly connected to employment and increase the likelihood that students will be able to work in their field of study."
These programmatic successes significantly impact students because they will have a credential they can use to obtain employment for the rest of their lives.
The high passing rates have had a tremendous impact on the institution because it
allows the continuation of these programs and is also an excellent recruiting tool.
In a 2015 report released by the Obama administration, researchers found that licensed workers tend to earn more than their counterparts who are not required to obtain licenses. Workers with these certifications also enjoy labor market advantages that go beyond higher wages. These individuals have longer job tenure and lower voluntary and involuntary part-time status.
Because of these notable findings, Webster added that he couldn't be prouder to have these successful passing rates.
"I am beyond proud of our students and the faculty. This is a testament to their hard work and dedication to excellence," Webster expressed. "Throughout the year, many of our students and faculty are presented with so many challenges, but through it all, they were able to work together for the common good."
The CTE Division's mission is to prepare students with the technical skills needed to meet the employment demands of businesses.
The unit offers a variety of programs such as Architecture and Construction Studies, Human Services, Professional Studies, Transportation Studies, Manufacturing Studies, and Special Services.
To learn more about the Career and Technical Education Programs, visit: www.coahomacc.edu/programs/career-technical.