THE FOLLOWING IS A DANVILLE AREA COMMUNITY COLLEGE RELEASE
ABOVE: DACC Barbering Instructor Terry Gouard.
DANVILLE – Danville Area Community College is excited to announce the start of its new Barbering program, launching in the Spring semester. The first group of full-time students will begin on Tuesday, January 21, 2025.
The program offers two options: a two-semester certificate or a four-semester Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Barbering. Classes run Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM at DACC’s Village Mall location. Terry Gouard, a licensed instructor and experienced barber shop owner, will lead the program. The Barbering program is eligible for financial aid and has no prerequisites, making it easy for anyone to enroll. The program’s first cohort can accept 15 students, and classes will follow a spring/fall schedule.
According to the Illinois Career Information System, the demand for barbers is expected to rise by 7.5%. With more people needing haircare services, and many barbers retiring, job opportunities are on the rise. About 70% of barbers are self-employed, making it a flexible and rewarding career. Nationwide, projected employment is 66,500, with 7,200 new job openings each year.
The Village Mall location features a classroom for instruction and a 14-station barber clinic where students can work with real clients to earn salon hours. The clinic will be open to the public, giving students hands-on experience. The classroom is equipped with up-to-date resources and technology to enhance learning.
“This program is perfect for a variety of students,” says Dr. Carl Bridges, DACC’s Provost and VP of Academics and Student Services. “Whether you’re a recent high school graduate, someone looking for a side hustle, or someone wanting a new career or retirement job, Barbering offers great opportunities.”
Registration for the program opens Tuesday, November 12, 2024, through the DACC Advising Office. With only 15 spots available, it’s recommended to sign up early. A waiting list already exists, so don’t delay. For more information, call 217-443-8750.
Danville Area Community College is a comprehensive community college serving Illinois District 507, which consists of Vermilion County and parts of Champaign, Iroquois, Edgar, and Ford counties. DACC’s main campus is located at 2000 East Main Street, Danville. The College has a higher-learning center in Hoopeston at 847 E. Orange. To apply to DACC, call 217-443-3222 or visit the Web site at www.DACC.EDU.
