Council on Occupational Education Connects with Member Institutions in New Mexico Through Presidential Leadership in Motion Tour

The Council on Occupational Education continues its commitment to advancing excellence in career and technical education through President and CEO Dr. Kirk A. Nooks’ Presidential Leadership in Motion Tour, a national initiative focused on institutional engagement, student success, and workforce alignment. On April 6, 2026, Dr. Nooks visited Pinnacle Institute in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The visit was structured within a two-hour engagement model and included a campus tour and leadership meeting with institutional representatives, followed by faculty and staff discussions. Program demonstrations highlighted students in the Dental Assistant and Medical Assistant programs, providing direct insight into hands-on training and workforce preparation. The visit concluded with an informal student dialogue centered on educational experience and career readiness.

On April 7, 2026, Dr. Nooks visited A Better You Beauty Barber Academy in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This visit included a comprehensive campus tour, followed by discussions with faculty, staff, and students. Dr. Nooks delivered remarks focused on gainful employment and the importance of aligning education with workforce needs. The visit also included engagement with local leadership, including representatives from the mayor’s office, underscoring the broader community and economic impact of career education.

Reflecting on the tour, Dr. Nooks stated: “These visits reinforce the critical role that career-focused institutions play in transforming lives and strengthening communities. Across New Mexico, I witnessed students and educators deeply committed to excellence, opportunity, and workforce readiness.”