Student Success: Profile

When he worked in Hampton, School Superintendent Dr. Billy K. Cannaday, Jr., once had thoughts of closing the Cosmetology Program. However, when he learned what his wife was paying to get her hair fixed, he quickly changed his mind.

At a quick glance, Cosmetology wages are not impressive, however, the opportunities available with specialized training change the picture. Consider the case of a recent high school graduate in Chesterfield County. Instead of paying for private Cosmetology training, which could have cost upwards of $10,000 in the private sector, she enrolled in Cosmetology at the Chesterfield Technical Center at minimal cost. Not only did she learn technical skills related to her profession, she also competed in the student organization; SkillsUSA. This led her into many contests, which helped her develop and perfect her communications skills. All of this training came together to help land a position with a high profile salon in the county. During her first year, she earned approximately $60,000 in wages and additional $50 to $150 a day in tips. Figure out that income for the year! What is even more amazing was that she did this only working part time.

Of course, all cosmetologists do not earn that level of income. But those who have mastered the skills and can communicate with their clients have the opportunity. Developing her skills by taking classes and competing with other students around the state enabled this student to earn a substantial salary without having to spend a fortune on training. Plus, she was “job-ready?” out of high school and she can still go to college if that’s what she wants.

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