An area barbershop owner said students who complete the Capital Region BOCES Cosmetology program are stacking the deck in their favor.

Aaron Brown, also known as Ace Boogie, is owner of Headliners Barber Lounge in Albany and is the father of Cosmetology program senior Aubrey Brown. 

He recently visited the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Albany Campus to talk about his experiences as a barber and business owner, and demonstrate the skills needed to be a good barber.

The Albany businessman said BOCES provides a valuable service in preparing and getting youth excited for good careers in growing industries.

“BOCES is an important resource for potential employment recruitment. Typically, the younger they are, the more ambitious and anxious they are to get into the field,” said Brown.

Brown—who has made previous visits to the program—said CTE students are highly engaged in their learning.

“I wasn’t expecting the group to be so responsive and engaged,” he said. “The kids are just great, and that says something about the program.”

Brown said it is important for businesses to give back to youth by being a part of their education.

“I feel the youth should always be able to reach real people in the industry with questions and insight,” he said.

Headliners Barber Lounge is one of the more than 400 business, unions and education partners that Capital Region BOCES works with to help fuel the regional and state economies. Through these partnerships, students are able to launch careers directly out of high school or land jobs that will help them pay for future educational opportunities. 

There are nearly 200 students who was enrolled in the Cosmetology program. Offered on the Schoharie and Albany campuses, the program teaches students everything from nail care to shampooing, rinsing, conditioning, artistry in hair styling, decontamination, infection control and financial planning.