Erie 1 BOCES Workforce Development Opens New Schools of Cosmetology and Barbering

Posted On Thursday November 14, 2024
WFD Cos Grand Opening
Erie 1 BOCES and WNY leaders cut the ribbon to the new Schools of Cosmetology and Barbering.

Erie 1 BOCES has officially opened its new Workforce Development Schools of Cosmetology and Barbering, located at Workforce Development North on Walden Avenue in Cheektowaga. These new facilities bring cutting-edge resources to students pursuing careers in cosmetology and barbering, offering hands-on training and access to top-notch equipment in professional salon settings.

The School of Cosmetology can now accommodate 38 students at a time, providing a spacious environment equipped with the latest industry tools. This new setup supports students aiming to become professional cosmetologists with a learning space similar to a high-end salon.

The new School of Barbering, redesigned as a professional barbershop, brings exciting changes, too. This program now includes daytime classes, giving students more flexibility to fit training into their schedules. Students gain hands-on experience through internships with experienced master barbers, a critical step in their career training.

"We are thrilled to cut the ribbon on our new Schools of Cosmetology and Barbering," said Christa McHale, Erie 1 BOCES’ Director of Educational Partnerships and Workforce Development. "These state-of-the-art salons will provide our students with the latest industry resources and greater flexibility in their education."

The School of Barbering also welcomed a well-known local educator, Thomas Nichols, to lead the new daytime classes. Known to his students as "Mr. Nick," Nichols has a wealth of experience from teaching barbering within Buffalo Public Schools and brings a fresh energy and vision to his role at Erie 1 BOCES. Nichols aims to prepare his students not only to become skilled barbers but also future instructors. "It feels good because it gives me an opportunity to touch more lives," he shared. "I have a proven system that I may need to tweak a little bit, but I’m ready to take this class to the Superbowl."

“I am eager to see the positive impact that both the School of Cosmetology and the School of Barbering will have on our students and the salon and spa industry in Western New York,” said Erie 1 BOCES Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services, Anedda Trautman. 

The grand opening ceremony took place on Wednesday, November 13th, with Erie 1 BOCES and community leaders cutting the ribbon to celebrate the new spaces.