Here Come The Jobs!
If you are an aspiring barber, hair dresser or stylist, here is some great news. A recent report by The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated that there will be nearly 100,000 new cosmetology jobs in the U.S. by 2020.
This somewhat untapped field is expected to grow significantly over the next six years with positions increasing by 16%. Population growth is not the only factor to thank for these increases; but rather the sheer popularity and demand for specialty hair treatments and coloring.
A significant portion of these jobs will also come from the need to replace people who move to other occupations or retire.
Other than the creative aspects and flexible work options that a career in Cosmetology offers, here is another great reason workers in this industry can be assured their jobs are secure: their jobs cannot be exported overseas.
For those looking to either transition into the field or plan on making it their first career choice, this is an excellent time to do so. Keep in mind that proper education and licensing is crucial. Employers take credentials and qualifications into much consideration when searching for employees.
To help defray the costs that come along with a reputable education, there are an abundance of scholarship programs available. The financial aid officer at your school of choice will also be able to help point you in the right direction and even help you find local, community-specific scholarships that fit your interests.
Here are a few notable organizations that provide scholarships to aspiring Cosmetology professionals:
- Beauty Changes Lives, a nonprofit initiative of the American Association of Cosmetology Schools, provides the Vidal Sassoon Professional Beauty Education Scholarships, a couple of the largest and most prestigious annual cosmetology scholarships.
- American Association of Cosmetology Schools also offers its own variety of cosmetology school grants and scholarships.
- The Professional Beauty Association also sponsors several awards. PBA members can apply for the Hans Neumaier PBA Member Scholarship, which is worth $1,000 and open to high school and cosmetology school students as well as professionals interested in continuing education.
- The trade group also partners with Minerva, a retailer of salon equipment, to award the Minerva Beauty Scholarship. Unlike the Sally Beauty program, Minerva's scholarships are available to students who are already enrolled in a cosmetology school.
There are plenty of great reasons to pursue a career as a stylist, esthetician, barber or cosmetologist, and these cosmetology scholarships can help you start and complete the education you need.
Contact Brown Aveda Institute if you have any questions about your career goals, education options, scholarship eligibility or financial assistance.