As Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month ended in February, the Morris County Vocational School District (MCVSD) reflects on the impact of its programs that prepare students for a variety of pathways. Throughout CTE Month, the district recognized the value of CTE and promoted this through a variety of activities ranging from specialized student programs, an achievement ceremony to highlight student successes, and recognizing alumni accomplishments.
Additionally, the district highlighted the many opportunities available for Morris County high school students through tours, and information sessions showcasing programs that provide hands-on training, industry certifications, and the opportunity to earn college credits.
One of the newest additions to MCVSD program offerings is the Share-Time Business Pathway at the Morris County Career Training Center, located on the campus of the County College of Morris in Randolph. This pathway, with tracks in Entrepreneurship and Supply Chain Management, will offer an innovative educational opportunity for high school juniors and seniors that will bridge the gap between high school education and the workforce. Students will gain valuable skills, college credits, and experiences that prepare them for future careers or further education.
While many students begin their journey in a career-specific program, such as Cosmetology, there is now an option for students to begin exploring business ownership while in high school.
Many successful beauty professionals begin with dreams of working behind the chair but discover that business knowledge becomes their secret weapon. Take Tabitha Gessling, an MCVSD alum who transformed her beauty industry background into a thriving marketing strategy business. Her story demonstrates how a strong business foundation can open the doors to exciting opportunities.
Tabitha’s Cosmetology education provided her with the skills needed to succeed behind the chair. However, her ambition led to a journey, earning a degree in Cosmetics and Fragrance Marketing with a minor in Ethics and Sustainability at the Fashion Institute of Technology. Since that time, Tabitha has worked in diverse settings, from New York Fashion Week runways and editorial shoots to weddings and private clients. These experiences deepened her understanding of both the creative and business aspects of the industry, shaping her passion for helping beauty professionals grow their brands.
“There’s no one-size-fits-all path in beauty, or in any industry,” explains Tabitha. “For young entrepreneurs, programs like the Business Pathway at the Morris County Career Training Center is a great stepping stone for future professionals to carve out their own unique success stories.
Most importantly, Tabitha notes that her goals in the beauty industry “could have been accomplished with focusing on business first and then beauty.” This insight is particularly valuable for students considering alternative pathways into any industry.
“The Business Pathway will give students the chance to develop their entrepreneurial skills, preparing them to launch their own business or be part of one that is already established”, said Tabitha Gessling. “Regardless if a student’s passion lies in cosmetology, marketing, or another field, a business education offers a solid foundation needed to build a successful career.”
Recognizing the challenges beauty professionals face in marketing themselves, Tabitha launched Tabslookbook, a digital marketing agency designed specifically for beauty professionals. Through branding, social media management, content creation, and website design, she helps artists and salon owners connect with their ideal clients and grow their businesses with confidence.
The Morris County Vocational School District takes pride in celebrating the achievements of alumni, not just during CTE Month, but all year long. It’s success stories like Tabitha Gessling that contribute to the impact of career and technical education. The right foundation can lead to incredible opportunities, providing students with inspiration and preparation to succeed in their future careers.
Morris County Vocational School District offers a wide range of career and technical education programs that inspire and prepare students to succeed in today’s world and pursue tomorrow’s opportunities. Programs range from auto service and construction trades to healthcare sciences, performing arts and cybersecurity. The high school offers full-time academies and share-time programs on its Denville campus. In addition, through collaboration with local school districts and the County College of Morris, it offers full-time academies and share-time programs established at off-site satellite locations. To learn more, email Gina DiDomenico, MCVSD Student Recruitment & Community Relations, at didomenicog@mcvts.org or visit www.mcvts.org.
