Culpeper Cosmetology trains students for workforce

The gang at Culpeper Cosmetology aims to please, and they do.

An accredited training center administered by Culpeper Human Services, the one-year program provides guys and girls of all ages the opportunity for a successful career in the beauty business.

The facility, located off of East Street on U.S. Avenue, looks like a beauty salon with its manicure/pedicure room, individual hair stations and retail section.

Program fees for the 1,500-hour training course total $15,000, but since Culpeper Cosmetology is accredited students can apply for federal financial aid. Many students, in fact, receive aid covering a majority of the tuition, says program director Sue Hansohn.

Instruction consists of lectures, demonstrations, visual aids, textbook study, practical assignments, field trips and hands-on practice on real clients.

Hours of attendance are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, and Wednesday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. when clients are taken.

The center has three instructors — Sue Butler, Terri Dickerson and Lynn Settle — and an all-around family friendly atmosphere.

On a recent visit, a 1-year-old baby waiting for her mother to get her hair done wandered around the facility, curiously checking out everything and getting attention from students and clients alike.

Student Amy Walton, of Culpeper, expected to finish the course in April at which point she will take the state cosmetology test to receive her certification.

Walton, 18, said she wants to practice her trade in Culpeper, and will certainly be well-equipped with her education from Culpeper Cosmetology.

Besides hair, nails and facials, students do a little bit of everything else, including cleaning up.

“Miss Sue says she’s teaching us to work!” said Walton of Miss Sue Butler, the longtime heart and soul of the center.

Culpeper Cosmetology is planning a move in the near future to a nearby storefront on Waters Place.

The center’s discounted services are open to the public. Make an appointment at 727-8003 Wednesday through Friday or Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Walk-ins also accepted. Hair cuts are $8, single process color for $30, highlights are $40, manicures $8 and pedicures $15. Other services are available.