With 31 years of experience in barbery, Scott Osby said it is time to mentor a new generation through the new Capital Barber Academy.
Osby opened Capital Barber Academy in mid-August in Capitol View Plaza, also known as Ellis Plaza, at 512 Ellis Blvd.
Capital Barber Academy is the first barber school in Jefferson City, Osby said.
Having worked at a local barbershop for several years, Osby said he noticed there was a need for a barber school in Jefferson City. While Merrell University Esthetics is in Jefferson City and does offer a barber program, there isn't an exclusive barber school in Mid-Missouri, he said.
"A lot of people that are interested don't want to go through all of the cosmetics as far as the beauticians and cosmetology-type requirements," he said. "So I felt there was a big need for it, and barbershops up here are pretty limited."
Capital Barber Academy offers a seven-month program that goes through clipper and comb, razor, haircut, and coloring techniques, along with the history of barbery. While students will have their temporary license to cut hair while in school, they must complete 1,000 hours of experience before they can take their certification test, Osby said.
"When a person is interested in it and has the passion like I do, that really makes me want to go all out and I want to teach," he said. "It's something that's an asset that needs to be going on, and I'm thinking I'm the best person who's qualified to do that."
The school will offer a cross-over program for cosmetologists who want to become barbers. They must complete 45 hours in order to take their certification test, Osby said.
The difference between a cosmetologist and a barber is one simple tool - a razor. A cosmetologist must complete a cross-over program for barbery before they can use a razor, Osby said, adding many cosmetologists have expressed interest in the program.
"I think that's well-needed for cosmetologists because guys like beards and they want the razor on them and razor linings," he said.
Capital Barber Academy will also offer a clipper and comb class for cosmetologists who want to sharpen their skills.
Those interested can enroll by contacting Capital Barber Academy at capitalbarberacademy.com.
Students will get hands-on experience at Capital Barber Academy, as they will work with clients while enhancing their barbery skills, Osby said.
Capital Barber Academy currently has two students and can take up to 15, Osby said.
Around the time Capital Barber Academy opened, Capitol View Plaza went through several renovations after Robby and Amanda Box, through OED Properties LLC, purchased the property in August.
Know of any business happenings around Jefferson City? Let us know at [email protected].