Education

Education is something we've always done and will always do - it's who we are. A crucial part of our mission is to nurture beauty professionals and apprentices. Our stylists attend monthly trainings conducted in-house as well as out sourced by professionals leading our industry. Education is not just for the `ohana at Ulupono - we invite professionals across the islands to learn with us because we believe that learning as a community only helps to strengthen our industry as a whole.

 

Another avenue that supports our mission to educate is our Haumana - the apprentices gaining real salon experience and strong theoretical foundation to support their growth in their chosen career path. Our background in beauty education has helped us to create a robust, structured, and clear path to fulfill the Beauty Operator license requirements set by the state of Hawai`i. With the support of their principle Kumu, Alaka`i of Education & Sales, and the rest of our Ulupono 'ohana, our Haumana are well equipped to learn and achieve their career and financial goals. 

 

Our Haumana are eager to learn, see feedback as an opportunity for growth, are unafraid to try new things and make discoveries, value playing as a team, crave structure, enjoy being creative, and ultimately love working with people. Positions may not always be available, but if this resonates with you, we invite you to submit an application to discuss the Haumana program and your professional goals in more detail. 

Employment
Professional Education

Haumana Program - Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the program?

This depends on the classification desired for the Beauty Operator License.

  • Cosmetologist (hairdresser, esthetician, and nail technician) - 3600 hours
  • Hairdresser (hair services only) - 2400 hours
  • Esthetician (skin care and makeup) - 1200 hours
  • Nail Technician (manicure and pedicure) - 700

Haumana can expect to earn up to 40 hours a week. Training for a cosmetologist classification is expected to be completed within 21 months. The Hawai`i Board of Barbering and Cosmetology has set a maximum length of time of apprenticeship training at 42 months and a minimum of 20 hour per week. 

How will I learn?

Haumana are registered under a principle Kumu, licensed professional, with whom they shadow and learn as an assistant. The principle Kumu and other Kumus in the salon will aid the Haumana in learning sanitation practices, shop management, and service procedures. This is coupled with specialty classes focused on developing dexterity and different skill sets. Haumana also have access to Canvas, Google Suite, and Pivot Point learning materials that teach the theoretical foundations for practical training. Written exams and practical evaluations are conducted throughout training to provide feedback and prepare Haumana for a state board written and practical exam for licensure. 

What if I do not have any experience in the beauty industry?

Prior experience is not a prerequisite to joining the program. 

What are the requirements to apprentice?

Haumana must be at least 16 years of age and provide evidence of having an education equivalent to the completion of high school (high school diploma or GED). Haumana must also provide proof of legal authorization to work in the United States.

Do I get paid as an apprentice?

Yes, apprenticeship is considered on-the-job training, and as such, Haumana are employees of the salon and eligible for full employee benefits if training full-time. Haumana may also receive tips from their Kumu or directly from guests. 

Are there any costs as an apprentice?

Yes, Haumana must purchase their theory lab seats, books, and other learning materials. They must also purchase their technical kit which includes all of the necessary tools of the trade and mannequin heads for practice. Throughout training, Haumana may choose to purchase additional items to add to their learning and/or technical kit, and may also choose to invest in additional training and certification opportunities. Financial aid may be available for those that qualify.

Do I have to work at Ulupono Salon and Spa after my apprenticeship?

It is our hope that our Haumana desire to continue with our `ohana upon getting licensed and leveling up throughout their career path within the salon and spa, however our goal is to train Native Hawaiians and Hawai`i locals for the variety of career paths the local industry has to offer. It is not a requirement to work within our salon upon completion.

When can I start?

Applications are accepted year round. Each Kumu may only have one Haumana at any given time, so space may be limited. Priority is given to Haumana who are pursuing the cosmetologist classification and open to learning all specialties as a beauty operator.