Cosmetology

Nail Technician I

Students learn to manicure, pedicure, install and maintain artificial nails, and apply concepts associated with bacteriology, sanitation, nail disorders, anatomy and physiology, and safety. Completion prepares students for the Virginia Board for Barbers and Cosmetology Nail Technician licensing examination

Beauty Salon Assistant 

The Beauty Salon Assistant course prepares students for work as an assistant in a salon. Students study and prepare in a clinical lab setting, learning practical and manipulative skills. The program emphasizes safety and sanitation, shampooing and conditioning, retailing, inventory control, and receptionist work. 

Cosmetology I 

In this introductory course, students study hair, skin, and nails and their related care. Students are grounded in theory as they prepare to practice procedures in a clinical lab setting or classroom, using mannequins for manipulative skill practice. The first-year course emphasizes personal safety, professionalism, and sanitation and disinfection of equipment and facilities. Students develop skills in shampooing and conditioning hair, as well as styling and cutting hair. They are introduced to chemical texture services and develop skills in manicure and pedicure procedures.

Cosmetology II

In this continuing course, students build on their theoretical foundation of general sciences and practices in cosmetology to increase proficiency in hair cutting and styling on live models, with attention to professionalism, client consultation, safety, and infection control. Students are trained in safe chemical processes related to permanent waves, relaxers, lightening, and coloring hair. In addition, students learn to care for skin, hands, and feet, developing experience in providing facials, manicures, pedicures, and nail enhancements. Students will be introduced to a business management unit with a focus on managing the salon.

Cosmetology III 

In this advanced course, students build on their theoretical foundation of general sciences and practices in cosmetology to increase proficiency in hair cutting and styling on live models, with attention to professionalism, client consultation, safety, and infection control. Students are trained in safe chemical processes related to chemical texture services and advanced hair coloring techniques. They also develop artistic skills with wigs and hair additions. In addition, students learn to care for skin, hands, and feet, developing experience in providing facials, manicures, pedicures, and nail enhancements. An advanced business management unit focuses on managing the salon. Competency completion prepares the student for the Virginia State Licensing Exam. Students can combine classroom instruction and supervised on-the-job training in an approved position or internship with continuing supervision throughout the school year.

Teacher: Johnnell Taylor 

Class: Cosmetology and Beauty Salon Assistant

Years of Experience: 42

Ms.  Taylor has been teaching Cosmetology   at Richmond Technical Center  since 2014. With a passion for color and cutting and making her clients feel and look good, she loves educating students for those aha moments.  She strives to create a supporting and inspiring learning environment for all students.

She  received her license in Cosmetology from Flair Beauty Institute and studied at Vidal Sassoon. She is a licensed Cosmetologist in the state of Virginia and worked as an employment representative for Hair Cuttery for 13 years. She believes in the importance of  never giving up and striving to be your best. 

Ms. Taylor is dedicated to preparing students for their future careers. She integrates real-world skills into the curriculum, focusing on specific skills such as customer service, sanitation, and  all aspects of the hair industry. She also emphasizes the importance of students staying relevant and updating in their skills.  “Never stop learning - Ms. Taylor”

Their are many opportunities in the Cosmetology field such as : esthetician, makeup artist, teacher, hair colorist, chemist, nail technician, and braider. 

Teacher: Amy Hill

Class: Cosmetology & Nail Technician Teacher

Years of Experience: 28

Ms. Amy Hill has been teaching Cosmetology & Nail Technician at Richmond Technical Center since 2024. With a passion for Cosmetology & Nail Technician, she strives to create an engaging and supportive learning environment for all students. She received her Bachelor Business Administration Degree from Strayer University. She also received her Phoenix University certifications relevant to CTE teaching.

Throughout her career, she's specialized in hairstyling, color theory, skincare, nail artistry, and business management. Bringing both technical knowledge and real-world experience to the classroom. She stays current with industry trends and techniques to ensure my students receive a modern, comprehensive education.

Her goal as an educator is to inspire and empower the next generation of beauty professionals to reach their full potential. She believes in fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment where students feel supported in developing their creativity, technical skills, and professionalism. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes hands-on practice, critical thinking, and building the confidence needed for success in the beauty industry.

Outside of teaching, she enjoys attending beauty expos, learning new techniques, or mentoring young professionals. She is proud to contribute to an industry that celebrates artistry, individuality, and growth. She looks forward to guiding her students as they pursue their dreams in cosmetology and nail technician!

Teacher: Ms. Shante Harris

Class: Cosmetology 

Years of Experience: 20 

Ms. Harris, a Hanover native, has been teaching Cosmetology at Richmond Technical Center since 2024. With a passion for Haircutting, Color, and Bridal Hairstyling & Makeup, she strives to create an engaging and supportive learning environment for all students.

She received a Degree in Business Management from Centura College and holds both a Cosmetology License and a Cosmetology Instructor's License. Her works have been featured and published in film, media, and print. 

In addition to teaching, Ms. Harris has owned her own salon for 12 years. She is involved in her church, and loves to travel the world. She believes in the importance of education. “To teach it is to own it. Never stop learning!”

Ms. Harris is dedicated to preparing students for their future careers. She integrates real-world skills into the curriculum, focusing on the art of consultation, team building, sanitation, time management, and customer relations. She also emphasizes the importance of internships, and connections with local salons and spas to help students understand various career paths.