Dothan Tech students tour WCCD Cosmetology program

Dothan Tech and WCCD students post outside the WCCD Cosmetology facilities during a recent tour

Dothan City Schools Dothan Tech cosmetology students recently toured the Wallace Community College-Dothan (WCCD) Salon and Spa Management and Esthetics programs facilities, where Dothan Tech students learned more about the cosmetology program from WCCD staff and current students. The tour is a result of a partnership between Dothan Tech and WCCD to provide opportunities for high school students to advance their academic and technical skills, receive college credits for courses taken while in high school, experience hands-on learning opportunities, participate in work-based learning, earn industry credentials, and explore career pathways.

The tour began with a video presentation followed by a question-and-answer session with current WCCD students enrolled in the program. Dothan Tech students then participated in rotating breakout sessions where Salon and Spa Management students and instructors demonstrated hair coloring, braiding and styling, nails, and facials and makeup, demonstrating how WCCD students gain experience in the College’s full-service salon that is open to the public through scheduled appointments.

After a tour of the rest of the Dothan campus by the WCCD student ambassador Diplomats, Dothan Tech students were then instructed on steps to apply to the program which can be completed in as little as 12 months, or 3 semesters. Students completing the program are eligible to apply for a licensure examination to practice as a Cosmetologist in Alabama. Because of statewide articulation agreements, students completing cosmetology courses at Dothan Tech can earn up to 12 credits for courses toward the WCCD Salon and Spa Management program.

“The key to this partnership is buy-in from district and school leaders. We are fortunate to have strong leadership working with us to continually look for ways to better serve students and the Wiregrass community,” said Martha Compton, WCCD Associate Dean of Career & Technical. “We offer training for high skill, high demand careers and are working to help students realize the earnings potential of technical workers and how important these skilled workers are to our economy.”

“The partnership that was formed between the students and our schools during this visit was inspiring and motivating to all involved,” said Dothan Tech Cosmetology instructor Nassandra Corbitt. “I know that we are paving a pathway of success for our students and our community. As a former student of both Dothan Tech’s Cosmetology program and Wallace Community College’s Cosmetology program, it is an honor to form a partnership and articulation agreement that is beneficial to our students and community.”

“This opportunity allowed Dothan Tech students to experience first-hand the environment and expectations of Cosmetology on a college campus,” said Ryan Richards, Dothan City Schools Central Office Coordinator—Workforce Development. “It hopefully will help provide better understanding and motivation for them to continue working hard on their craft to complete their education and earn a professional license. Additionally, we hope our students will take advantage of the articulation of credit Wallace College offers along with helping us strengthen our program.”

Wallace offers over 30 career and technical workforce programs that prepare students for careers, and many opportunities for students to gain college credits during high school thanks to dual enrollment and articulation. In these programs, WCCD students develop the expertise, confidence, and work ethic for high-wage, high-demand careers while earning industry credentials.

For more information on WCCD career technical programs, please contact Martha Compton at mcompton@wallace.edu or 334-556-6822.