Program Designed to Meet Growing Demand for Well-Trained Professional Barbers
As the nation’s population continues to increase, and along with it the populations of Illinois and Indiana, the demand for professional hair care services are on the rise. Employment opportunities for barbers is projected to grow 10 percent through 2024, faster than the average for all occupations, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
This growing demand is the reason Tricoci University of Beauty Culture (“Tricoci University”) has launched a Barber Program. The 1500 clock-hour, 12-month program will prepare students for a wide variety of careers, including barber, barber apprentice, barbershop manager, barbershop owner, master barber or men’s stylist.
The inaugural class of barber students started at Tricoci University’s Chicago Northwest campus (near O’Hare) earlier this month, with plans for another class to start in a few months. Tricoci University’s Bridgeview campus is currently recruiting for their first class, and there are plans to offer the barbering program at additional campus locations later this year.
“What sparked our interest in adding the Barber Program was the number of barbershop owners approaching us about training the next generation of barbers,” says Mario Tricoci, legendary stylist and founder of Tricoci University of Beauty Culture. “Barbershop owners have made it known that it is getting more and more difficult to find professional talent. Anyone can cut hair, but professionals are hard to come by; that’s why we have created this program.”
Tricoci University’s Barber Program offers students a well-rounded education which includes essentials training, hair styling and hair art, practical chemical applications and hair treatments, shop management, shaving, skin care basics and sports manicures.
Tricoci University is known for offering the most advanced educational materials, equipment and facilities to cultivate an engaging learning experience, preparing students for successful careers. The majority of Tricoci University’s curriculum is delivered via iPad, which is included in every new student kit. Barbering education is further supported through the use of videos, demonstrations, guest artists, visual/ practical presentations, lectures and a lot of hands-on experience so students become prepared for both the state board examinations and career opportunities.