Barbers Only Magazine 2015 | Page 24

Professionalism. In the barber industry today, the high standards and respected tonsorial profession is beginning a steady climb back to its roots. Park West Barber School wants to make sure it stays that way.

Tim Mcintosh and Cory Bell are not just barbers. These gentlemen are at the forefront of the growing barber education industry with the explosive growth of Park West Barber School. The 5 schools; 4 in North Carolina and 1 in Virginia, have all helped young men and women who wished to fulfill their goals of being a licensed barber professional. BOM took some time out of their busy school schedules to find out about the Park West experience.

Mr. Taper: As experienced barbers, what made you want to open a barber school?

Park West: We wanted to increase the standard of barber education as well as teach the business side of the industry.

Mr.Taper- What year did you first open?

Park West Tim: August 2006. I have been a barber for 26 years. We were both registered barbers and instructors. As a young barber, I went through the apprentice program but didn't appreciate the theory side at the time. I saw a need once I received my instructor license. I also realized that the teaching of the business side was lacking in the profession.

Mr. Taper: Did the school face any obstacles with your initial growth?

Park West Cory: We found a challenge with getting people to view the industry as we do. We want the (Park West) brand to be recognized as a strong barbering brand.

Mr. Taper- How long did it take for the first school in 2006 to get off the ground?

Park West Tim- Cory had a school with 6 students. I had 5 students. We merged. Eventually we had 12 (total) students (lol)! We were instructors, counselors, mentors and big brothers to our students. One thing we had in mind was to grow the business and make a mark in the industry. After our first school, our next location was in Greensboro.

Mr. Taper- That's great! Did you always have plans to expand?

Park West Tim- In 2003-05 I had a chance to sit on the North Carolina Barber Board. This expanded my vision on what was needed in the industry. We have seen all over the country a need for barber education.

Mr. Taper- What's next for Park West in 2015?

Park West: We want to continue to expand the brand and fulfill the need for quality barber education. We also want to link up with others who share our views on barber education in the industry.

Mr. Taper: BOM wishes you continue success. Where can others find info about Park West Barber School?

Park West- www.ParkWest.edu

FYI: After the writing of this article BOM also learned that Park West will be opening its 2nd Charlotte location in December 2014. Congrats to the team at Park West Barber School!

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by Craig Logan

22 | WINTER | 2014

Park West Barber School School