Grand Opening of New Cosmetology Client and Practical Lab at WKCTC

Community Invited to Celebrate New Space Funded by USDA Rural Business Development Grant program and the Kentucky Department for Local Government

Paducah, KY (10/09/2024) — FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Event Details:

Date: October 15, 2024

Time: 2:30 - 3:30 PM

Location: Anderson Technical Building, First Floor, WKCTC Campus

Who's Invited: Community members, students, faculty, staff, and the media

PADUCAH, KY - West Kentucky Community and Technical College (WKCTC) is excited to announce the grand opening of its newly renovated Cosmetology program Public Clinic Training Salon and Student Practice Lab spaces, made possible by a $249,683 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Business Development Grant program, and a $58,797 grant from the Kentucky Department for Local Government.

This state-of-the-art renovation is a significant milestone for the college's Cosmetology Program, as it upgrades and replaces outdated equipment and classrooms. The new facility will offer industry-standard equipment and increased space, allowing the program to expand enrollment, reduce its waitlist, and improve accessibility for students and clients with limited mobility.

WKCTC's Cosmetology Program Coordinator Tracy McDanel noted the updated equipment will help train students with the latest tools and techniques used in the industry, preparing them for immediate success in the workforce. "We've been looking forward to this upgrade for years, and it's finally happening!" said McDanel. "Our students now have access to the most modern equipment, which will make a huge difference in their education and future careers."

The two-year Cosmetology Program at WKCTC offers degrees and certificates in nail care, hair styling, and skincare. With a 90-95% job placement rate, the program is highly regarded by local salons and beauty professionals. In western Kentucky cosmetology professionals are an important part of the economy in rural communities. The retrofitted Student Practice Lab and Public Clinic Training Salon will provide students in the college's region with hands-on experience opportunities to serve clients at current industry standards during fall and spring semesters.

USDA Grant Impact

The USDA Rural Business Development grant not only provides for the modernization of the program but also will open doors for additional job opportunities. Graduates will now have the chance to return to WKCTC as instructors, bringing their professional experience full circle to benefit future students.

Join Us!

WKCTC invites all community members, media representatives, students, faculty, and staff to attend the grand opening. Come tour the new facility, learn more about the program, and experience first-hand the exciting opportunities available to WKCTC Cosmetology students.

WKCTC Cosmetology Spa Day - October 17, 2024

In addition to the grand opening, WKCTC is excited to invite the public to participate in our Cosmetology Spa Day on October 17, 2024, from 4 to 9 PM in the same location (Anderson Technical Building, First Floor, Room 131). Guests may park near the blue awning that reads "Cosmetology" and enter the building under the awning.

Space is limited, so we encourage clients to call and book their appointments as soon as possible by phoning 270-534-3410!

Available Services and Pricing:

Basic Manicure: $8

Jelly Manicure: $10

UV Gel Polish: $20

Basic Pedicure: $12

Jelly Pedicure: $15

Detox Pedicure: $20

Basic Facial: $15

Phototherapy Facial: $25

Non-Surgical Facelift: $25

Shampoo/Haircut/Style: $10

Scalp Facial: $20

Detox of Hair & Scalp: $15

During fall and spring semesters WKCTC's cosmetology program salon is open Monday through Thursday from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM, and offers a full list of services. For more information about services, pricing, or to schedule an appointment, please call 270-534-3410.

To find out more about a career in cosmetology or to inquire about salon services and pricing, please visit our webpage at westkentucky.kctcs.edu.

For more information, please contact:Whitney Walker, Director of Marketing & Communications, whitney.walker@kctcs.edu, 270-205-8659

About USDA The USDA Rural Business Development Grant program promotes economic development and job creation projects by awarding grant funds to eligible entities. Grant funding must be used for projects which benefit rural areas or towns. The program is authorized by the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act (ConAct).

About Kentucky Department for Local Government The Kentucky Department for Local Government (DLG), under the Office of the Governor, provides financial help in the way of grant and loan assistance, as well as advising local governments in matters of budget, personnel and other issues relevant to those entities.

West Kentucky Community and Technical College (WKCTC) has been recognized as an Aspen Prize Top 10 Community College five times by the Aspen Institute and has been named a Finalist with Distinction three times. Offering more than 200 degree, diploma, and certificate options, WKCTC has been consistently recognized for providing students with vital job training and continuing higher education opportunities, for achieving high completion and transfer rates, and for providing strong employment results for its graduates. For more information, visit westkentucky.kctcs.edu

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