Otero College Extends Career Advance Colorado Program Through Spring 2026

Otero College is proud to announce that the state-funded Career Advance Colorado program will be extended through Spring 2026, offering residents continued access to zero‑cost training in in‑demand career fields.

Launched at Otero College in August 2023, the Career Advance Colorado initiative provides free tuition, fees, and materials for qualified students pursuing high-demand workforce training.

 Career Advanced Colorado covers fields of study that are considered in-demand, including Construction, Welding, Early Childhood Education, Law Enforcement, and Nursing (including CNA, LPN, RN credentials; pre‑requisites not covered). Although funding available through Spring 2026, new applicants encouraged to enroll early as spots are first‑come, first‑served, and participants must complete a federal or state financial aid application to qualify.

This extension ensures sustained opportunity for Colorado residents to boost career readiness and strengthen the regional workforce. By eliminating upfront costs, the program makes education more accessible, particularly benefiting adult learners, career changers, and families in Southeastern Colorado.

For students like Marissa Delgado, who completed her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) training through Career Advance Colorado in 2024, the program was a pivotal stepping stone:

“Career Advance Colorado made it possible for me to follow my dream of becoming a nurse. I was working part-time and couldn’t afford school on my own. This program covered my costs and gave me the push I needed. Now I’m working at a local clinic and planning to return to Otero for my RN.”

Interested students should contact McKensie Avens, Assistant Director of Financial Aid
at  (719) 384‑6985,  email mckensie.avens@otero.edu, or visit https://otero.edu/pay-for-college/career-advance-colorado/.