Q&A with Jerry Kallioinen, Phagans’ Director of Education

In this Q&A, Phagans Director of Education Jerry Kallioinen discusses how an art background led him to the beauty industry, what he enjoyed about beauty school, and why students and the learning process continue to inspire him.

Interview highlights include:

• His education at Montavilla College of Hair Design
• His unexpected path from art education to hair design
• His experience teaching beauty students
• His work as a NACCAS academic evaluator
• His advice for prospective beauty school students

Q: What beauty school did you go to?
A: Montavilla College of Hair Design in Portland, Oregon.

Q: How did you get involved in the beauty industry?
A: I earned my art degree in college and was inspired to become a high school art teacher, but the market was flooded. My roommate was in beauty school at the time and he encouraged me to go because he thought that I would like it … and I did!

Q: What was school like?
A: It was a bit of a culture shock, but it became a very social experience, and I realized that I had a knack for hair design.

Q: How long have you been teaching?
A: Long enough to know how to do finger waves in my sleep.

Q: What inspires you?
A: The students and the process of learning.

Q: What do you like about your job?
A: I like the high degree of variety, and I enjoy visiting other beauty schools around the country as an academic evaluator with NACCAS.

Q: What advice would you give to prospective students?
A: Be willing to make a lifestyle change and don’t get discouraged by the challenges.