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Learn Beauty

If you’ve ever dreamt of a career in the beauty industry, Pivot Point Academy – Wahl Barber Academy can turn that dream into a reality. Being part of the beauty industry can provide you with countless opportunities. You can become self-employed and set and work on your own schedule.  By enrolling in Pivot Point Academy – Wahl Barber Academy, you learn beauty industry skills, meet new people, and build lifelong professional relationships.  We can help enhance your creative skills, find your purpose, and live your passion.  Our courses include hands-on training and cover many areas of hair and skincare. From cutting and coloring to makeup and shaving, there’s a lot to learn here at our Academy. Since we believe beauty professionals should have business skills, business management, and social media training are part of our curriculum.

Great news! Wahl Barber Academy is now licensed to do business as a barber school in the state of Illinois. A barber school only, located near O’Hare Airport and easily accessed from the CTA Blue Line, the Wahl Barber Academy has assembled a team of leading licensed instructors who demonstrate technical skills and the ability to inspire and motivate students.

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Cosmetology

Designed to provide students the knowledge and skills to use their creativity to become confident and salon-ready hairdressing professionals.

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Esthetics

Build confidence in students to graduate knowing they are spa-ready and ready to begin a career in skincare, make-up, or related industries.

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Barbering

Add skills like men’s haircutting, shaving, and grooming, along with others that give you a robust repertoire current with barbering trends.

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Teacher Training, Makeup, Continuing Education… More Programs

Why
Pivot Point Academy?

Brand
Pivot Point

From the first phone conversation to your first visit to our Academy, we ensure that you'll feel welcomed, included, excited, and a part of the Pivot Point Family. You will enjoy your learning experience, being immersed in the salon, barber clinic and spa surroundings with like-minded people. Soon you will say, “I am Pivot Point”.

Experienced
Instructors

Your instructors are experienced, award-winning educators. Highly motivated, and extraordinary professionals. Our master educators are trained with our proprietary Mindful Teaching Professional Development product, and provide clear, consistent training to make the most of your fun, interactive, classroom, and hands-on experience.

Learning
Made Fun

Our mantra that sums up our style: positive vibes in a fun environment while maintaining the orientation of learn forward to an outcome of success. Visits from guest artists who'll share their stories, their techniques, and their talents to support your growth as future beauty professionals during workshops. Providing you with unique opportunities to form relationships with these industry experts.

Real-World
Salon and Spa

You will experience real, hands-on practice in our professionally managed student salon, barber clinic, and spa. Actual customers will support your development and enjoy your continually improving services at value prices while receiving ongoing promotions and bundles offerings. IN 2019 around 5,400 services were performed.


Exam Prep

All of our programs include test preparation, including a mock State Board Exam, in order to prepare you for the Illinois State License exam.

Top Job Placements

Our graduates are highly sought after by the most successful salons, spas, and barbershops in Chicagoland and beyond. Career opportunities for our students and graduates are frequently posted on our website by our area partners. Career Fairs hosted at our academy offer you opportunities to build relationships for strong alliances in your future career.

Community
Outreach

A beauty career is all about helping others to look and feel their best. Through our teachers’ guidance, our students are encouraged to reach out and share beauty to those in our communities who may need our services the most, and Pivot Point Academy supports all of these efforts.

Salon
Readiness

Mastery of fundamentals plus proficiency in technical aspects will allow you to discover the artistic side of your profession. Together with Pivot Point Academy’s business-focus training, every student’s salon readiness will flourish.

Competition
Participation

Competition is an adventure of discovery. It stretches your artistic talent and skills further than you thought possible. Pivot Point Academy encourages students to compete; those interested are provided a coach and a mentor. Students who compete maximize their creativity and improve their speed, skills requisite for excelling in the profession.

Spotlight
on You

We at Pivot Point are singularly focused on our students. We are beauty-obsessed and education-obsessed. You’ll benefit from the fun of a creative and nurturing learning environment that trains you in developing your skill and artistry while advancing your career and employment options.

Digital
Learning Experience

The beauty industry is social and visual, inclusive and so are you. You will experience just how fun learning can be! Your education is delivered via an innovative online learning experience. “Learn About Beauty" (LAB) is designed specifically for our industry. A mix of online collaboration, class-room, workshops and hands-on training sessions including soft skills, business, and social media elements.

Alumni
Benefits

During your tenure at Pivot Point Academy and after graduation, you have access to specialized tools at a discounted price. Continuing education support is paramount, and advanced classes will be at your disposal at a discount for any additional licenses or certifications that you would like to add to your portfolio of education.

We’re AACS Golden School Award Winners

We did it again! We’re proud to announce that we are one of the 2023 Golden School Awards winners in the category school of te year. After we have won in 2022 two Golden School Awards. We couldn’t have done this without the hard work of our amazing instructors, staff, and our students of course. Thank you to everyone who has supported us, we’re excited to see what the future holds for Pivot Point Academy!

Turning ‘one day’ into ‘day one’ – seize the moment and make things happen! 👊 #MondayMotivation #PivotPointAcademy #LearnForward (📸: @ewill_chopped_it)

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Turning ‘one day’ into ‘day one’ – seize the moment and make things happen! 👊 #MondayMotivation #PivotPointAcademy #LearnForward (📸: @ewill_chopped_it)

The search is over! 🔎

Your future into the barbering industry begins HERE! Wahl Barber Academy is accepting applications for new students, so make sure to secure your spot & schedule your tour today!

Request more information by calling 847-383-9780 or visiting our website.

https://www.pivotpoint.edu/education/barber/

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The search is over! 🔎 Your future into the barbering industry begins HERE! Wahl Barber Academy is accepting applications for new students, so make sure to secure your spot & schedule your tour today! Request more information by calling 847-383-9780 or visiting our website. https://www.pivotpoint.edu/education/barber/

Available days are Saturdays and Sundays. As well evening’s Monday through Thursday. Please call (847) 383-9780 and ask for Michelle.

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Available days are Saturdays and Sundays. As well evening’s Monday through Thursday. Please call (847) 383-9780 and ask for Michelle.

Mark your calendar!

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Mark your calendar!

THE FUTURE MAKER BEHIND THE LOOK - MICHAEL DAMIANO

@micdamiano

Europe | United Kingdom

"If Modern and Classic were squashed together and had babies…we have the best of both in one haircut"

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THE FUTURE MAKER BEHIND THE LOOK - MICHAEL DAMIANO @micdamiano Europe | United Kingdom "If Modern and Classic were squashed together and had babies…we have the best of both in one haircut"

Crafting fades and shaping styles - where passion meets precision. 💈 It all starts here at Wahl Barber Academy - Chicago, IL!

#wahlbarberacademy #wahlbarberacademychicago #wahlbarberstudent #chicagobarber #wba #barberschool #barberschoolchicago

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Crafting fades and shaping styles - where passion meets precision. 💈 It all starts here at Wahl Barber Academy - Chicago, IL! #wahlbarberacademy #wahlbarberacademychicago #wahlbarberstudent #chicagobarber #wba #barberschool #barberschoolchicago

It`s time for you to begin your journey into the barbering industry! 💈

Wahl Barber Academy is accepting applications! Start your enrollment process by calling 847-985-5900 or visiting https://www.pivotpoint.edu/wahl-barber-academy/

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It's time for you to begin your journey into the barbering industry! 💈 Wahl Barber Academy is accepting applications! Start your enrollment process by calling 847-985-5900 or visiting https://www.pivotpoint.edu/wahl-barber-academy/

Welcome Saul, Stephanie, and Hugh! Today is day one of a new future. It all starts here at Wahl Barber Academy - Chicago, IL!

#wahlbarberacademy #wahlbarberacademychicago #wahlbarberstudent #chicagobarber #wba #barberschool #barberschoolchicago

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Welcome Saul, Stephanie, and Hugh! Today is day one of a new future. It all starts here at Wahl Barber Academy - Chicago, IL! #wahlbarberacademy #wahlbarberacademychicago #wahlbarberstudent #chicagobarber #wba #barberschool #barberschoolchicago

Don’t miss out, application only open until 10/31/2023! This leadership scholarship is created for the next generation of leaders to join the beauty industry and covers all tuition and registration fees. See link below on how to apply: www.pivotpoint.edu/wahl-barber-academy/

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Don’t miss out, application only open until 10/31/2023! This leadership scholarship is created for the next generation of leaders to join the beauty industry and covers all tuition and registration fees. See link below on how to apply: www.pivotpoint.edu/wahl-barber-academy/

Have you heard?

We have opened up a brand new barbering location that will offer world-class education for future barbers! Learn more about our campus Wahl Barber Academy by clicking the link in our bio!
https://www.pivotpoint.edu/wahl-barber-academy-chicago-il/

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Have you heard? We have opened up a brand new barbering location that will offer world-class education for future barbers! Learn more about our campus Wahl Barber Academy by clicking the link in our bio! https://www.pivotpoint.edu/wahl-barber-academy-chicago-il/

Only perfect practice makes perfect 😉. Next barber program class starts at 10/30/2023. Don’t miss out!

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Only perfect practice makes perfect 😉. Next barber program class starts at 10/30/2023. Don’t miss out!

It’s the little details tat are vital. Details create the big picture.

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It’s the little details tat are vital. Details create the big picture.

Class is in session! Congratulations barber students, this is day one of pursuing your dream.

Are you next? Enrolling now for October 30th 🔥

#wahlbarberacademy #wahlbarberstudent #wahlbarberacademychicago #chicagobarber #wba #barberschool #barberschoolchicago

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Class is in session! Congratulations barber students, this is day one of pursuing your dream. Are you next? Enrolling now for October 30th 🔥 #wahlbarberacademy #wahlbarberstudent #wahlbarberacademychicago #chicagobarber #wba #barberschool #barberschoolchicago

Have a look at our Student Barber Kit.

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Have a look at our Student Barber Kit.

Thank you Giovanni and Edwin for taking the first official tour of Wahl Barber Academy! We can’t wait to have you #wahlacademybarber

Schedule your tour now! https://www.pivotpoint.edu/wahl-barber-academy-chicago-il/ 💈

#wahlbarberacademy #wahlbarberacademychicago #wahlbarbernation #wahlchicagobarber #wahlbarberstudent

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Thank you Giovanni and Edwin for taking the first official tour of Wahl Barber Academy! We can’t wait to have you #wahlacademybarber Schedule your tour now! https://www.pivotpoint.edu/wahl-barber-academy-chicago-il/ 💈 #wahlbarberacademy #wahlbarberacademychicago #wahlbarbernation #wahlchicagobarber #wahlbarberstudent

Testimonials

  • I chose pivot point intentionally because I’ve always loved makeup. Going through all the phases and learning all the curriculum I’ve never been so happy to become a well-rounded hairstylist knowing all techniques and learning all different hair types. I’ve never been so blessed to be working at Sharon Daniel Salon to further my career and make everyone feel beautiful!

    Alissa M.

    I chose Pivot Point because of its professional but fun atmosphere. I feel that they took cosmetology as seriously as I did but everyone was still warm and welcoming! I am now working at a Redken elite salon in Chicago and I feel like I’ve found a home in my rising salon!

    Mikey D.

  • Pivot Point Academy is not only a school, it is a home. This place helped me branch out into a whole different person. I tried things I never knew I would try and accomplished so much more than I would’ve ever thought. Pivot Point allowed me to find another home at Sorelle Salon in Bartlett. I am a full-time stylist now doing hair, makeup, spray tans, lash extensions, lash lifts, and nails! This industry offers so much and Pivot Point helped me realize beauty is unstoppable!

    Gabby B.

    I chose Pivot Point Academy because I wanted a supportive, family-like school. I knew from the minute I toured the academy; I was home. The educators were amazing, my classmates were always cheering me on and the rest of the team always had my back. I knew going to Pivot Point I would have the best cosmetology education and opportunities following graduation. I was given all of that, plus so much more.

    Savannah F.

  • I chose Pivot Point because it had always been highly recommended to me and frankly; no other school compared. I felt welcomed and at home right away, so I knew it was the right choice. After graduating from Pivot Point, I was able to come across an amazing job opportunity at The Mixx Hair Salon where I am now a full-time hairstylist and lead makeup artist.

    Nathaly L.

    I just graduated from the teacher training program and I want to share my appreciation for the school, I’ve learned so much! I truly have enjoyed my time there. The staff & students have been wonderful. I just truly love the atmosphere, curriculum, and basically everything about this wonderful school.

    Brittany S.

  • After doing a ton of research, I chose to attend Pivot Point Academy to obtain my Cosmetology license. Their curriculum looked the best compared to other schools, and I’ve heard great feedback from friends that attended this beauty school.

    Lisa W.

    I recently attended the Cosmetology school at Pivot Point Academy to tighten up my skills. Great instructors that facilitate a collaborative learning experience that is not only based on concepts – but also hands-on practice to help enhance your skills.

    Sophia B.

  • Attending Pivot Point Academy for my cosmetology training was the single most important career decision I’ve made. From the strongest in fundamentals to a vast network, I wouldn’t be the traveling artists I am today without it. In one word: Blessed!

    Matt B.

    I felt the most comfortable at Pivot Point Academy when I did my walk-through, I can tell the staff really cared about me and are down to earth. Pivot point truly cared about wanting me to succeed and go far in this industry and supported me throughout school and even after graduation. Pivot Point Academy has instilled in me the professional that I have become, and for that, I am forever grateful. After I completed both cosmetology and barber school, I have been building a solid clientele and been loving it every day! With having such an awesome educational background I truly can go forth with confidence for any client that sits in my chair. I am so fortunate to have made such close friends while in school that I will have for a lifetime!

    Natalie G.

Financial Planning Services – Much More Than
Financial Aid

Our Financial Services team is here to assist you in creating your financial planning. Full support from start through graduation. Provide support to fill out the FAFSA application and evaluate access to Title IV programs for post-secondary education and eligibility. Discover and help to apply for available scholarships you may qualify for (Financial Planning Appointment).

Stronger Together

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Barber Icon

Barber

Our barber program offers comprehensive training in all aspects of barbering, providing students with the skills and confidence to succeed in the industry. Learn classic haircuts, shaves, grooming, and more!

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Barber Crossover

Our barber crossover program empowers experienced hairstylists to seamlessly transition into the world of barbering through specialized training and focused skill development. Learn unique techniques, styles, client interactions, and more!

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Teacher Training

Our teacher training barber program is designed for experienced barbers who aspire to share their knowledge and passion with the next generation of barbers. Learn classroom techniques, mentorship, curriculum development, and more!

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