When CTE Works: Turning Talent Into Opportunity Global CTE Podcast Ep 72 w/Darlene Gibson
- Sylvester Chisom
- Jan 8
- 1 min read
When CTE Works: Turning Talent Into Opportunity Global CTE Podcast Ep 72 w/Darlene Gibson
In Episode 72 of the Global CTE Podcast and the first episode of 2026, Sylvester sits down with his mother, Darlene Gibson, to explore what Career and Technical Education looks like when it truly works. From discovering her calling at age 12 to building a 40 plus year career in cosmetology, entrepreneurship, and education, Darlene shares how skill, confidence, and relationships create lasting opportunity. This conversation reframes cosmetology as a powerful pathway to economic mobility, leadership, and legacy.
Top 5 Topics Covered:
-Early career clarity and discovering purpose through skill
-Cosmetology as a legitimate, high-value CTE pathway
-Confidence, resilience, and overcoming physical and societal barriers
-Entrepreneurship, professionalism, and building social capital
-The future of the cosmetology industry, technology, and AI
Darlene Gibson Bio:
Darlene Gibson is a trailblazing entrepreneur and educator with over 40 years of experience in the cosmetology and beauty industry. She is the founder of Professional Touch Salon in St. Louis and Show Me The Beauty, an online education platform empowering aspiring beauty professionals around the world. In addition to her businesses, Darlene travels globally as a Backstage Show Manager and Creative Artist for Farouk Systems, helping produce some of the most prestigious hair shows in the industry. Driven by excellence, professionalism, and a commitment to empowering others through skill, Darlene continues to shape the future of beauty, education, and entrepreneurship.
Comments