Issue link: https://www.ahpindiestylist.com/i/1467303
N ot a m e m b e r ? J o i n at a s so c iate d h a i rp rofe s sio n a ls .c o m 41 Q. You mention in your submission essay that after several unfulfilling jobs, your barber suggested barber school. What was it that compelled you to move forward with it? A. I worked in retail management then moved on to the carpenters' union, specializing in flooring. I did that for a few years, but it just wasn't what I saw myself doing for 20–30 years. Even as a child, I was always fascinated with barbershops. My late father would take me with him every three weeks to get haircuts. When I brought up my love for barbershops, my barber at the time suggested barber school. Q. Can you share more about what it was about going to barber school that made you fall in love with cutting hair? A. In barber school, you didn't really get a lot of time on the floor the first 13 weeks. You learn the basics. But man, once I hit the floor and got rid of the nerves, I loved the confidence boost people would get from a fresh haircut. My instructors played a big role in that as well. The way each one taught was different than the other. One was great with shears and focused on the small details you might overlook. The other was all about razor work and finding your fading method. Q. Barbering seems to be having its moment: Barbers are influencers, and women are having their hair done by barbers and becoming barbers. More manufacturers are producing high-end tools and products for barbers. Any thoughts on what is spurring this moment? A. I just feel that the barber industry is now held in a higher standard. Before, people didn't view barbers as an important part of the community. In reality, barbers are therapists and friends to their clients. It's easier to make a client a friend than to make a friend a client. The industry needed and still needs more female barbers. I personally know some who can cut hair circles around a lot of men. Barbering is a growing industry and is only beginning to grow. The tools for the barber industry are always so innovative. I have a few favorite brands, but my mentor Chris Bossio (owner of Tomb45) has changed the industry so much just in the past 10 years. Bossio has changed my whole career with his mentorship program.