Choffin Career and Technical Center is using students and 21st-century technology to promote its programs.

The school which is part of the Youngstown City School District offers programs in fire fighting, law enforcement,  nursing, dental technology, cosmetology, skilled trades such as welding, automotive technician, and construction made a video to reach students in Youngstown and Mahoning County.

In the video, students talk about the program they are in and how it is helping them earn a certificate and pass a state exam needed to get a good-paying job, without college loans, or trade school debt.

Many programs like the welding programs range from $10,000 to $25,000 a year once a student graduates from high school.

Cosmetology school can cost from $20,000 to $25,0000 once a student graduates from high school. 

But high school juniors and seniors can get that training at Choffin their last two years of high school which is paid for or funded by taxpayers.

"We used to do paper brochures etc., but we know the students today are into media, so much so we produced a multi-media video... It's all our students doing the talking or speaking about their programs," School Board Member Joe Meranto said.

"Welding, well-paying jobs right out, they get a certificate, well-paying jobs $25 to $35 an hour, plus benefits to start. You can feed your family, and that's just starting. You can also become a manager, or start your own company," Meranto added.

"With cosmetology, you can come here for two years, complete your courses pass a test, and get your license. The minute you graduate beauty school costs   $20,000 to $25,000," Meranto emphasized.

"Students are in every video talking about their program and experience, and that's what makes it so exciting. It's kids talking to other kids," School Board Member Merando said.

The video was professionally made with input from administrators from Choffin and collaboration by Choffin instructors.

A marketing push will begin in April..

Youngstown City School District will be offering an opportunity to students at nearby school districts to attend their half-day programs, then attend school for a half a day.

Programs at Mahoning County and Trumbull County Career and Technical Centers offer full-day programs.

You can check out other programs offered at choffinctc.com