Certifications
- Cosmetology Licensure
- Barbicide Certification
- OSHA 10
- AHA Heartsaver®️ CPR/AED
- Conover Workplace Readiness
- ACT National Career Readiness Certification
The Cosmetology program will prepare students for a successful career in the cosmetology industry.
Advisory Committee
- Hillary McCoy— Hillary McCoy Hair
- Deanna McGinnis—
A Signature Day Spa - Christine Pouliot—
Christine’s Hair Styling - Linda Bove—
Joy of Nails - Lexy Halliday—Avante
- Elizabeth DiPalma Avante
The Cosmetology program curriculum is designed to provide competency-based knowledge, scientific artistic principles, and hands-on fundamentals associated with the Cosmetology industry. Students enroll in the program for two academic years and are expected to accumulate 1,000 program hours required to be eligible for the Vermont state cosmetology licensing exam.
What We Do
Hands-on training in the STC classroom and student-run salon. From booking appointments, to service, to cashout students truly run our Salon at Stafford. Students will consult with clients to provide professional salon services including hair, nail, and skincare. Students also get a chance to take part in work-based learning in local salons.
Entry Requirements
Recommended Prerequisites: Math skills – basic math (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals, percentages, proportions) probability, money, and financial management skills. Students must also have strong reading comprehension of course materials, and the ability to self-direct, collaborate and work independently. In addition, students must have the ability to demonstrate and practice effective communication skills, apply practical skills in a professional setting, and apply personal and professional hygiene and attire.
Reading Level of Course Materials: Grade 11
Embedded Credits: 1 Science (Year 1); 1 Math (Year 2)
Scales for standards assessed
Year 2 Students: Must have completed a minimum of 500 hours. Must have the ability to perform in a salon environment to apply hands-on and professional industry skills. Must be available for work-based learning opportunities.
Program Instructor – Stacy Hutchins
Stacy Hutchins did her cosmetology training at Obriens school of Cosmetology in Burlington VT. After working for 19 years in salon environments and being self employed for the last 10 years she decided that working with upcoming cosmetologists by joining Stafford Technical Center was where she wanted to take her career in Cosmetology. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her husband and two teenage boys, attending sporting events for her sons and reading.
st************@****vt.org (802) 770-1174
Program Instructor – Paula Levasseur
Paula Levasseur resided in Dartmouth, Massachusetts before arriving in Rutland, Vermont. She owned a full-service salon and spa focusing on all areas of cosmetology for over twenty-two years. She has attended various aspects of education including Vocational Education through Fitchburg State University; Vidal Sassoon Academy (London, England); and Martin Parson’s Academy in Canada. Paula has also received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Career And Technical Education from Northern Vermont University.
pa*************@****vt.org (802) 770-1054
Cosmetology Social Media 
Cosmetology
The left side of the graphic includes the Stafford Technical Center logo and the phrase:
Career Tree – Education with Purpose
This infographic uses the image of a large tree to illustrate career pathways in Cosmetology.
The tree begins with roots that represent the personal and educational foundation needed for career success. The trunk symbolizes growth, and the tree branches into three progressively higher levels of careers represented by layered platforms surrounding the tree.
Graphic Structure
Foundation (Roots)
The roots of the tree are labeled with four foundational elements:
- Academics
- Experiences
- Professional Skills
- Passion
These elements are presented as the basis for career development.
Level 1 – Entry-Level Careers
With Program Completion
- Receptionist
- Sales Representative
- Skin Care Consultant
- Makeup Artist
- Fashion Shop Stylist
- Beauty Supply Store Manager
- Shampoo Service Assistant
- Film, Theatrical, & Editorial Stylist
- Beauty Supply Store Associate
- Blow Dry Bar Stylist
- Cosmetologist/Cosmetology Assistant
- Distributor Sales Consultant
Level 2 – Technical Careers
Apprenticeship, Associate Degree, Advanced Certification, Experience, etc.
Career options include:
- Cosmetologist
- Nail Technician
- Esthetician
- In Salon Educator
- Platform Artist
- Hair Color Specialist
- Cruise Ship Stylist
- Eyelash Extension Specialist
- Wedding Stylist & Makeup Artist
- District Franchise Manager
- Salon Coordinator/Manager
- Massage Therapist
Level 3 – Professional Careers
Bachelor’s Degree, Master’s Degree, Ph.D., Specialized Training, Experience, etc.
Career options include:
- Medical Esthetician
- Editorial Stylist
- Electrologist
- Cosmetic Chemist
- Research & Development Coordinator
- Cosmetology School Owner
- Film/TV Stylist
- Franchise Salon Owner
- Salon & Spa Owner/Manager/Entrepreneur
- Beauty Media Author/Editor/Publisher
- Career Tech Instructor
- Fashion & Wardrobe Designer and Consultant
Key Message
The tree represents a progression of career development:
- Strong roots are built through academics, experience, professional skills, and passion.
- Students can begin in entry-level construction careers after program completion.
- Additional education, certifications, apprenticeships, and experience lead to technical careers.
- Higher education and specialized training provide pathways to professional careers with greater responsibility and leadership opportunities.
The visual emphasizes that career growth is continuous and that each stage builds upon the previous one.