Corey Passage, Author at Pivot Point International

Intercoiffure and Pivot Point Launch 2026 Student Contest Celebrating The Tapestry of Texture

Intercoiffure, the prestigious global network of top-tier salons, has officially opened entries for its 2026 Student Contest—an annual competition that shines a spotlight on creativity, education, and social responsibility in the beauty industry. This year’s theme: The Tapestry of Texture.

Presented in partnership with Pivot Point, a leader in beauty education, the contest invites students from accredited public and private beauty schools to showcase their passion and artistry for hair texture.

To enter, students must submit a mobile-shot video (30 seconds or less) by June 15, answering the prompt:

“As a future professional, what makes the texture hair category exciting to you?”

Finalists will then team up with a chosen instructor to bring their vision to life. All contestants will be using Pivot Point mannequins.

The winning student and their instructor will be awarded an all-expenses-paid trip to New York City, where they will be honored on stage at the Intercoiffure Fall Atelier, held October 3–6.

This contest not only highlights technical skill but also celebrates mentorship, artistry, and the transformative power of education.

“Pivot Point International appreciates this special opportunity to support the educational community, especially our future professionals and the educators who change lives,” says Robert Passage, chairman and CEO of Pivot Point International. “We are proud of our strong partnership with Intercoiffure, which includes the Honor Your Teacher program, Intercoiffure Student Contest, and the Leo Passage Educator of the Year award.”

Click here to view the digital flyer.

Past Student Contest themes have included AI, Textured Hair, Sustainability, and Special Occasion Hair. These themes showcase the contest’s commitment to addressing key topics in the beauty industry.

For more information on the contest guidelines and entry details, visit the contest website: Intercoiffure Student Contest.

Honoring Beauty School Teachers

In addition to ICA’s celebrated Student Contest, Intercoiffure America Canada also recognizes the educators who inspire the next generation of beauty professionals through its “Honor Your Teacher” Educator Awards program. Students across North America are invited to nominate instructors who have made a lasting impact on their education and career journey, with selected honorees recognized at ICA’s prestigious Fall Atelier event.

LEARN MORE >>

Intercoiffure America Canada

Intercoiffure America Canada is the North American division of the global beauty organization, Intercoiffure Mondial. Founded in 1933, it is an exclusive association representing high-end salon owners and stylists across the United States and Canada. As members, they always strive to be the best salon owners, community leaders, influencers, and human beings. Their mission is to share beauty through their work and lives, making this world more beautiful inside and out.

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Babe Hair Extensions on LAB: Hands-On Education Built for the Classroom

As demand for hair extension services continues to grow, cosmetology programs are looking for ways to deliver more than just foundational knowledge—they need learning experiences that prepare students for real clients, real services, and real success.

That’s where Babe Hair Extensions comes in.

Available on Pivot Point LAB, Babe brings a classroom-first approach to extension education, combining hands-on learning, flexible curriculum, and real-world skill development to support both educators and students.

A Classroom-First Approach to Extension Education

Babe Hair Extensions is designed specifically for cosmetology schools, with a focus on interactive, instructor-led learning that fits seamlessly into existing programs.

Rather than relying solely on demonstration or self-paced content, Babe emphasizes:

Guided, in-class instruction
Hands-on practice and repetition
Real-time feedback and student engagement

This approach helps students build confidence as they learn—so they’re better prepared when it’s time to work with clients.

Teaching the Full Extension Experience

Babe’s curriculum goes beyond technique to cover the full client journey, giving students a well-rounded understanding of extension services.

Students gain experience with:

Tape-In, Fusion, and Sew-In Weft methods
Client consultation and customization
Professional installation and safe removal
Cutting and blending for seamless results
Aftercare and maintenance education

By learning each step of the process, students develop not just technical ability but also the confidence to deliver a complete service from start to finish.

Learning by Doing: A Focus on Hands-On Training

A defining element of Babe’s approach is its strong emphasis on experiential learning.

Students actively participate in:

Live-model training
Application, removal, and blending practice
Consultation role-play scenarios
Real-world communication exercises

This “learn by doing” model reinforces skills through repetition and application, helping students transition more naturally from the classroom to the salon floor.

What’s New in Babe 2.0

With the introduction of Babe 2.0, the program has been enhanced to better support educators and expand student learning opportunities.

More Flexible Teaching Tools

Babe 2.0 introduces updated resources designed to make classroom delivery easier and more adaptable:

Customizable curriculum modules
Structured trainer guides with suggested timing
An 8-week student assignment roadmap
Printable classroom materials

These tools give educators the flexibility to tailor lessons while maintaining a consistent learning experience.

Expanded Interactive Learning

Babe 2.0 builds on its hands-on foundation with even more opportunities for students to practice and engage in real-world scenarios.

From guided lessons to consultation exercises, students gain experience that mirrors what they’ll encounter in the salon—helping build both skill and confidence.

NEW: Express Extension Services

A key addition to Babe 2.0 is Express Extension Services training, designed to introduce students to quick, high-impact services.

These services:

Offer a low-risk way to practice placement, blending, and speed
Help students build confidence before full applications
Create opportunities for add-on services and client retention
Support long-term business growth

This practical training helps students understand how to turn skills into services.

Preparing Students for Life Behind the Chair

Babe’s approach combines technical education with real-world preparation, helping students graduate with:

Confidence in their extension skills
Experience with real client scenarios
Strong consultation and communication abilities
Foundational knowledge of pricing and service growth

The result is a more complete, career-ready skill set that supports success beyond graduation.

Built to Support Educators and Schools

For educators and school owners, Babe offers a flexible, scalable way to bring modern extension education into the classroom.

With structured resources, hands-on learning opportunities, and adaptable curriculum options, schools can:

Integrate extension training into existing programs
Provide more engaging, interactive learning experiences
Expand service offerings and student skill sets

Explore Babe Hair Extensions on LAB

Babe Hair Extensions is available on LAB, offering a hands-on, classroom-driven approach to extension education that supports both teaching and learning.

Join Our Webinar to Learn More

Explore Babe 2.0, meet the brand, and discover how it can support your program.

DISCOVER BABE HAIR EXTENSIONS

Date: Wednesday, May 27
Time: 12 p.m. CST

REGISTER NOW

Interested in Babe Hair Extensions?

Request more information here to learn more!

Enhance Beauty School Curricula with Content Partners

Interested in learning more about our Supplementary Content available on Pivot Point LAB? Click here to see our entire Content Partner library. Complete with catalogs that include business skills, money management, social media marketing, product knowledge and advanced beauty education. Enhance your student’s learning experience with additional education from industry experts!

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Hair Extension Education for Cosmetology Students

As demand for hair extension services continues to grow, today’s cosmetology students need more than foundational training—they need real-world skills that prepare them for success behind the chair.

That’s why we’re excited to welcome Laced Hair to Pivot Point LAB, bringing modern, career-focused hair extension education designed for students, educators, and beauty schools.

What Is Laced Hair?

Laced Hair Academy is an extension education platform built by stylists, for stylists, with a focus on real-world application. Their programs are designed to bridge the gap between traditional cosmetology education and the skills needed to confidently offer professional hair extension services after graduation.

Through flexible, on-demand learning and certification-based programs, students can gain hands-on knowledge while learning how to apply these techniques in a real salon environment.

Learn Hair Extension Techniques Step by Step

Laced Hair’s curriculum walks students through every stage of the extension service process, helping them build both technical skills and confidence.

Key areas of training include:

Consultation and client assessment
Color matching and customization
Hair extension installation techniques
Blending, cutting, and finishing
Maintenance and move-up appointments
Safe removal and reinstallation
Business, pricing, and client experience

Each lesson is delivered through structured, demonstration-based video content, making it easy for students to learn at their own pace and revisit techniques as needed.

Hair Extension Certification and Career Preparation

One of the biggest advantages of Laced Hair is its focus on career readiness.

Students have the opportunity to:

Complete hair extension certification programs
Access course materials anytime with lifetime access
Practice skills through hands-on application
Submit work for feedback and refinement
Learn business strategies for pricing and client growth

This combination of technical and business education helps students graduate prepared to offer in-demand extension services and build a strong client base.

A Valuable Resource for Beauty Schools and Educators

For beauty schools and cosmetology educators, Laced Hair offers a structured, easy-to-integrate curriculum that supports both teaching and student outcomes.

With demonstration-based training and built-in support materials, educators can confidently introduce modern hair extension techniques into their programs—helping students stay competitive in today’s industry.

Why Hair Extension Training Matters for Students

Hair extensions remain one of the most requested and high-value salon services. Having access to professional extension training before entering the workforce gives students a competitive edge and helps them expand their service offerings early in their careers.

By learning these skills in school, students can:

Build confidence behind the chair
Offer additional services to future clients
Increase earning potential after graduation
Stand out in a competitive job market

Explore Laced Hair on LAB

Laced Hair is now available on LAB, giving students and schools access to high-quality, flexible hair extension training designed for real-world success.

Join Our Webinars to Learn More

Get an inside look at Laced Hair’s education, curriculum, and approach to preparing students for careers in the beauty industry.

MEET LACED HAIR ON LAB

Date: Wednesday, May 13
Time: 12 p.m. CST

~~REGISTER NOW~~

WATCH RECORDING

LACED HAIR: BEHIND THE SCENES AT PREMIERE

Date: Wednesday, June 23
Time: 12 p.m. CST

REGISTER NOW

Interested in Laced Hair Extensions?

Request more information here to learn more!

Enhance Beauty School Curricula with Content Partners

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Unlocking the AI Advantage: How Beauty Educators Can Work Smarter, Not Harder

by Pivot Point Director of Content Partners Product Management, Daniel Dunworth

If you’ve ever stayed late rewriting a lesson plan, searching for a better way to explain a concept, or trying to come up with a new way to engage your students, you’re not alone.

For many beauty educators, the challenge isn’t a lack of passion or expertise. It’s time.

Time to plan, time to create, and time to adapt lessons for different learners.

That’s where Artificial Intelligence (AI) is starting to change the conversation.

Not by replacing educators, but by helping them work smarter, think faster, and create more dynamic learning experiences.

“AI in the classroom will be like ‘four or five’ amazing graduate students assisting teachers.” — Sal Khan, Khan Academy CEO

“AI won’t replace teachers, but teachers who use AI will replace those who don’t.” — Common industry sentiment

AI SHOULD FREE TEACHERS TO FOCUS ON THE HUMAN SIDE OF TEACHING

My Journey Exploring AI

When I first started exploring AI, I wasn’t looking for a big transformation. I was just curious whether it had a place in beauty education while helping me complete everyday tasks.

What I found was something much more valuable.

AI quickly became a creative partner, helping me structure lessons faster, rethink how I explain technical concepts, and experiment with new ways to engage learners.

Some ideas worked. Some didn’t. But every interaction helped me think differently about teaching.

And that’s really where the advantage is, not just in saving time, but in expanding how we approach education.

From Small Wins to Bigger Possibilities

For most educators, using AI doesn’t start with a big system overhaul. It starts with something simple.

Maybe it’s asking AI to outline a haircut demonstration before class.
Or generating a few extra practice questions for state board prep.
Or finding a new way to explain why a chemical service reacts the way it does.

These small wins add up quickly.

What starts as a time-saver becomes something more, a way to reduce mental load, spark creativity, and open the door to trying new ideas in both the classroom and the student salon environment.

“The most effective educators won’t be the ones who work the hardest—they’ll be the ones who learn how to work differently.”

A Layered Approach to AI

One of the most helpful ways to think about AI is in layers. Not everything has to happen at once. Most educators naturally move from simple uses to more advanced ones over time.

As I explored these layers myself, I started noticing that certain tools naturally supported different stages, not as rules, but as helpful starting points depending on where you are. I’d like to share some of my personal favorites with you.

Level 1 – AI Digital Assistant

This is where most people begin, using AI to handle quick, everyday tasks.

An educator might ask AI to draft a lesson outline for a layered haircut or create a quick rubric for evaluating a manicure service. A student might use it to review key infection control steps before a practical. An administrator might quickly respond to a scheduling question or pull together policy reminders.

If you’re used to “Googling everything,” tools like Google Gemini can feel like a natural first step, allowing you to stay in that comfort zone while turning a basic search into a more conversational, back-and-forth experience.

It’s simple, but it gives you time back immediately.

Level 2 – AI Coordinator

After a while, you start noticing that AI isn’t just helping with individual tasks; it can help you organize bigger pieces of your workflow.

An educator might map out a full week of cosmetology lessons, including theory, demo, and technical activities. A barbering instructor could plan a progression of fading techniques across multiple classes. A school owner might organize staff schedules or student salon rotations more efficiently.

At this stage, tools like ChatGPT become helpful because they can remember context, build on ideas, and generate content in different formats—whether that’s a lesson outline, a checklist, or even a structured plan you can adapt.

Instead of juggling everything mentally, you start to see your work more clearly.

Level 3 – AI Research & Data Analyst

This is where AI begins to unlock insights.

An esthetics educator might explore current skincare trends or ingredient knowledge for a facial lesson. A nail instructor could compare product systems to help students understand differences. A school leader might review student performance trends or enrollment data in a more digestible way.

When you reach this point, tools like Perplexity AI can be useful because they’re designed to pull in information with cited sources, helping you not only get answers but also verify and explore them further.

Instead of getting buried in information, you start getting focused, usable insights faster.

Level 4 – AI Strategic Advisor

At this stage, AI starts to feel less like a tool and more like a collaborator.

You might brainstorm new ways to teach color formulation, rethink how to engage students during theory-heavy lessons or explore how your curriculum flows from beginner to advanced skills. Program leaders might start evaluating growth opportunities or refining how their school positions itself.

Some platforms, like Microsoft Copilot, even allow you to build more focused AI “agents” or workflows—helping you stay aligned with specific goals or strategic priorities over time.

It’s less about getting answers—and more about thinking at a higher level.

Level 5 – AI Mentor or Coach

At the deepest level, AI becomes more reflective.

You might use it to refine how you explain a demonstration, practice giving student feedback, or role-play real scenarios, like coaching a struggling student or handling a service correction on the clinic floor.

Education-focused tools like MagicSchool.ai can support this kind of growth by offering resources specifically designed for educators, including feedback tools, rubric creation and communication support.

It doesn’t replace your experience—but it can sharpen it.

Creativity and Connection Still Come First When Teaching

With all of this, it’s important to remember: AI doesn’t replace what makes great educators great.

It can’t replicate:

The way you demonstrate a technique
The way you read a student’s confidence level
The way you adapt in real-time on the clinic floor

What it can do is support everything around those moments.

By helping with planning, organization, and idea generation, AI creates more space for what matters most and what we as educators love to do: hands-on teaching, mentorship, and student connection.

What You Can Do with AI

If you’re wondering where to start, keep it simple. You don’t need a full system; you just need a first step.

Try one of these:

Ask AI to outline your next haircut, color, facial, or nail service lesson
Generate 5–10 practice questions for state board exam prep
Have AI simplify a technical concept (like pH, skin types, or color theory)
Create a step-by-step breakdown of a demo before you teach it
Brainstorm new ways to engage students during theory or student salon time

Start small, pay attention to what works, and build from there.

A Final Thought on AI Tools

There’s no single “right” AI tool—what matters most is how you use it.

Some educators start with something familiar and conversational. Others look for tools that help organize ideas or support research. And many begin exploring platforms designed specifically for education.

The key is to start where you’re comfortable, stay curious as you grow, and keep learning forward.

Looking Ahead at AI in Beauty Education

AI in beauty education is still evolving, but one thing is clear: it’s not about replacing educators—it’s about supporting them.

The real opportunity isn’t just efficiency. It’s the ability to teach with more clarity, creativity, and intention.

Because at the end of the day, great education will always come down to people—educators who care, who adapt, and who continue to grow.

AI is just one more tool that can help you do that.

LEARN MORE ABOUT DANIEL DUNWORTH

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Education

Earth Month is more than a moment—it’s a movement. It’s a call to rethink how our industry operates and the role each of us plays in shaping its future. In an industry built on creativity and transformation, we have a unique opportunity—and responsibility—to lead meaningful change. At Pivot Point, sustainability isn’t treated as a seasonal initiative; it’s an ongoing commitment to reimagining education, reducing waste, and empowering the next generation of professionals to build more responsible businesses. This Earth Month, we’re not just raising awareness—we’re taking action, building momentum, and inviting our global community to be part of a more sustainable path forward.

Learn how Pivot Point is helping to advance sustainability in our industry and how you can get involved.

Turning Sustainability Into Action

Earth Month is a time to reflect—but more importantly, it’s a time to act.

At Pivot Point, we believe the future of sustainability depends on education, community, and measurable impact. After joining the Green Pledge last year, we’re continuing that momentum with new and expanded initiatives designed to support beauty professionals in building more eco-friendly businesses and sustainable practices.

This Earth Month, we’re focusing on three key pillars—plus a look ahead at what’s next.

Green Beauty Community Guidebook: A Resource for Sustainable Salons

If you’re looking to create a more sustainable business, the updated Green Beauty Community Guidebook is your starting point.

Developed in partnership with Green Beauty Community, this guidebook helps professionals:

Reduce waste in working environments
Improve energy and water efficiency
Choose more sustainable products and practices
Build environmentally responsible business models

This updated edition reflects the growing demand for green education and provides actionable steps that can be implemented immediately.

👉 Get the Guidebook

Green Beauty Community Impact Tour: Bringing Sustainability Education to You

The Impact Tour is a nationwide initiative designed by the Green Beauty Community to bring sustainability education for professionals directly into local communities.

Through live events and hands-on experiences, the tour offers:

In-person sustainable education
Technical demonstrations using eco-conscious practices
Opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals

This immersive experience empowers professionals, educators, and students to take real steps toward reducing their environmental impact and advancing sustainable practices.

👉 Learn more about the Impact Tour here

Cap Series Recovery Program: Reducing Industry Waste

Sustainability in the industry starts with reducing waste.

Unlike traditional mannequins made of foam that end up in landfills, the Cap Series features a recyclable, reusable headform with interchangeable caps in different hair lengths, textures, and colors. This innovative design supports sustainable practice while reducing material waste.

In partnership with Green Circle Salons, the Cap Series Mannequin Recovery Program makes it easy to return used hair caps—making sustainability simple and stress-free.

Key benefits include:

Reducing waste and environmental impact
Supporting circular sustainability practices
Encouraging long-term sustainable habits

Because every small step contributes to a larger environmental impact.

👉 Learn more about the Cap Series Recovery Program

Available Now: Sustainable Education on LAB

We’re expanding access to sustainability education even further.

In partnership with Green Beauty Community, new sustainable education is now available on LAB, Pivot Point’s digital learning platform.

The content includes:

On-demand sustainability education
Industry insights from sustainability leaders
Practical tools for implementing eco-friendly practices

Open to everyone on LAB in the Additional Resources section.

Stay tuned as we continue to grow our commitment to online sustainability education for the industry.

Join the Sustainability Movement

This Earth Month, we invite you to take the next step toward sustainability.

Whether you’re downloading the guidebook, attending the Impact Tour, or implementing recycling practices in your business, your actions make a difference.

Together, we can create a more sustainable future for our industry.

👉 Take the Green Pledge

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Introducing Pivot Point Pro: Professional Development for the Beauty, Barber, and Wellness Industry

The beauty, barber, and wellness industry has always been built on growth.

New techniques emerge. Trends evolve. Professionals continue refining their craft throughout their careers. As the industry grows and changes, so does the need for meaningful professional development that supports lifelong learning.

That belief is what led us to create Pivot Point Pro—a new professional development platform designed to support continued growth across the industry.

Built on decades of educational expertise and Pivot Point’s proven instructional methodology, Pivot Point Pro offers courses designed to strengthen professional skills, deepen expertise, and support meaningful learning throughout a career.

We’re launching with courses focused on educator development, helping beauty, barber, and wellness educators strengthen their teaching practice while earning continuing education hours and building toward certification. Over time, Pivot Point Pro will expand to include professional development opportunities for professionals across the industry.

Because learning doesn’t stop after licensure, growth never stops for professionals who want to make an impact.

Professional Development Designed for Beauty, Barber, and Wellness Educators

Pivot Point Pro offers online, self-paced courses that allow educators to strengthen their instructional approach while fitting learning into their busy schedules.

Courses are built around skill-based learning, helping educators apply practical strategies that support real classrooms and real learners.

Educators can explore courses across several subject areas that address the most important aspects of teaching, including:

Assessing Learner Knowledge
Brain Basics and Learning
Career Development
Classroom Management
Course and Lesson Plan Development
Instructional Methods
The Art of Teaching

Each course is designed to support meaningful learning and immediate classroom application.

Earn Continuing Education Hours

One of the key benefits of Pivot Point Pro is the ability for educators to earn continuing education (CE) hours while strengthening their teaching skills.

Each course offers CE hours that can support NACCAS Teaching Methodology requirements while also helping educators refine their instructional approach and expand their knowledge.

Rather than viewing continuing education as simply a requirement, Pivot Point Pro reframes it as an opportunity to grow as an educator.

Earn Certification Through Expertise

Educators who complete all courses within a subject area can earn a Subject Area Certificate that recognizes focused expertise in that area of teaching practice.

These certificates are part of the Pivot Point Educator Certification Program, which provides a structured pathway for educators who want to deepen their knowledge and gain recognition for their professional growth.

The certification pathway includes three stages:

Subject Area Certificates
Earned by completing all courses within a specific teaching subject area.

Mindful Teaching Certification
Recognizes educators who demonstrate thoughtful, learner-centered teaching practices and achieve all subject area certificates.

Pivot Point Ambassador (launching in 2027)
Recognizes Mindful Teaching Certified educators who extend their impact beyond the classroom by mentoring and supporting the broader Pivot Point education community.

This pathway was designed to recognize expertise—not just participation.

Built on Pivot Point’s Proven Teaching Methodology

For decades, Pivot Point has helped shape beauty, barber, and wellness education around the world.

Our learner-centered instructional methodology was developed specifically for how professionals in our industry learn best.

Pivot Point Pro brings that same educational philosophy directly to educators through professional development courses designed to strengthen teaching practice and support meaningful learning experiences.

Supporting Lifelong Learning for Professionals in the Industry

Pivot Point Pro launches with courses designed for educators, but this is only the beginning.

The platform will continue to expand with additional professional development opportunities designed for the broader industry—supporting lifelong learning for professionals at every stage of their careers.

Because when educators continue growing, learners benefit.
And when learners succeed, the entire industry grows stronger.

Explore Pivot Point Pro

Pivot Point Pro offers educators a new way to continue developing their skills, earn continuing education hours, and build expertise. It supports meaningful classroom learning that makes a difference.

Explore the platform and discover how your next step in professional growth can begin today.

Join Our Webinar to Learn More

Date: Wednesday, April 8
Time: 12 p.m. CST

~~REGISTER NOW~~

WATCH RECORDING

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LABX LIVE 2026: In-Person Learning Designed for Beauty, Barber, and Wellness School Educators and Owners

LABX LIVE returns September 12–14, 2026, in Rosemont, Illinois, bringing together educators, owners, and industry leaders for three days of transformative learning, collaboration, and continuing education.

Created specifically for professionals in beauty, barber, and wellness education, LABX LIVE is an opportunity to step away from the day-to-day demands of running classrooms and schools and focus on professional growth, new ideas, and meaningful connection with peers across the industry.

Attendees will experience hands-on learning sessions, collaborative discussions, and practical strategies they can immediately apply in their classrooms—while also earning valuable CE hours to support their continuing education requirements.

What Makes LABX LIVE Different

LABX LIVE is designed with the needs of educators and owners in mind. Every session, workshop, and learning track is created to support the real challenges educators face—from student engagement to instructional development and leadership growth.

Throughout the three-day experience, attendees will:

Participate in hands-on workshops and interactive learning sessions
Earn continuing education (CE) hours
Explore strategies that elevate teaching and student outcomes
Connect with fellow educators and school leaders
Gain fresh inspiration and practical ideas to bring back to their schools

Rather than simply presenting information, LABX LIVE focuses on experiences that help educators put ideas into practice.

Earn CE Hours While Advancing Your Skills

For educators and licensed professionals, continuing education is a crucial part of maintaining credentials and staying current in the industry.

LABX LIVE allows attendees to earn CE hours while engaging in meaningful professional development designed specifically for education. Learning tracks and workshops provide practical takeaways that can immediately benefit both educators and their students.

By combining continuing education with hands-on learning, LABX LIVE offers an opportunity to grow professionally while fulfilling important licensing requirements.

The Power of Learning Together

One of the most valuable aspects of LABX LIVE is the opportunity to connect with other professionals who share the same commitment to beauty education.

Beauty, barber, and wellness school educators and owners often work within their own campuses or organizations. This makes it rare to exchange ideas with peers across the industry. LABX LIVE creates space for those conversations to happen.

From collaborative learning sessions to evening networking events like the Welcome Reception and LABX Social, attendees will build relationships that often lead to new ideas, partnerships, and lasting professional connections.

Why In-Person Learning Matters

While digital learning has its place, the industry is built on hands-on skills, collaboration, and real-time feedback. In-person learning allows educators to observe techniques, ask questions, share experiences, and engage more deeply with the material.

LABX LIVE is intentionally designed as an in-person learning experience, allowing attendees to fully immerse themselves in the workshops, discussions, and connections that make professional growth truly impactful.

Join Us for LABX LIVE 2026

LABX LIVE is more than an event—it’s a dedicated opportunity for beauty, barber, and wellness school educators and owners to grow, connect, and bring new ideas back to their classrooms and schools.

Join us September 12–14, 2026, in Rosemont, IL, for three days of transformative learning, meaningful connection, and continuing education.

Attendees will earn CE hours, expand their instructional skills, and experience the energy that comes from learning together in person.

Register today to secure your spot at LABX LIVE 2026.

LABX LIVE 2024 Recap

In 2024, over 80 educators, school owners, and directors came together at the inaugural LABX LIVE for a weekend of inspiration, learning, and meaningful connections.

LEARN MORE

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Speak Up for Beauty Education Now

by Pivot Point Senior Manager, Business Development, Taylor Neff

Key takeaway: Beauty education provides creative careers, financial opportunities, and meaningful impact — but protecting licensing and training is critical to the industry’s future. As conversations around beauty licensing, financial aid, and industry regulation continue to evolve, the future of beauty education matters more than ever.

“What do you want to do with your life?”

It’s a question many of us start hearing around age 16.

But today, the answer is becoming more complicated — especially for students interested in beauty careers.

The truth is, at 16 I barely knew myself—let alone what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. It felt like a life-changing decision, and the pressure to make the right one was huge.

At the time, it felt like there were only two acceptable options:

Go to college. Or go straight into the workforce.

But college never quite felt like the path for me.

Not because I wasn’t a good student or didn’t enjoy school. I did. But I was always drawn to creative spaces.

I was a little punk rock kid. I loved live music. I loved art class. I was in band.

I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do with my life, but I knew one thing:

I wanted it to be creative, fun, and a place where I could truly show up as myself.

My brother went to art school, which intrigued me. I even toured a school for Interior Design, but something about it just didn’t feel right.

Then I walked through the doors of Eric Fisher Academy, a cosmetology school in Wichita, Kansas.

And I knew.

That moment changed my life.

Starting Beauty School

I started beauty school just one month after turning 18.

I knew myself well enough to realize that if I took too much time off after high school, I might not go back to school at all.

So I jumped in.

But being barely 18 and experiencing my newfound freedom came with some fun — maybe a little too much fun.

For a while, my social life took priority, and school fell to the back burner.

Eventually, it caught up with me.

And I dropped out.

Two months later, I realized how silly that decision was.

I wrote the school a letter asking them to accept me back so I could finish my hours.

Thankfully, they gave me a second chance and let me return to complete the program.

Looking back now, I’m incredibly grateful they did.

Choosing cosmetology school all those years ago turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life.

A Career That Is So Much More Than Hair

This career has provided so much for me — not just financially, but personally.

It allowed me to show up fully as myself: creative, expressive, and passionate, without judgment.

It gave me a space where my personality and individuality weren’t just accepted — they were celebrated.

It also allowed me to be someone’s day maker.

“This industry is about so much more than hair. We build confidence. We build relationships. We change lives.”

To see someone’s face light up when they see their fresh cut or color.

To celebrate life’s biggest moments with clients.

To sit with someone through heartbreak, loss, or difficult seasons.

Because the truth is:

This industry is about so much more than hair.

We build relationships.
We build confidence.
We become part of people’s lives.

And that is incredibly rewarding.

The Myth That Beauty Careers Aren’t “Real Careers”

Over the past 17 years in this industry, I’ve had many conversations where people view beauty careers as “less than.”

A backup plan.
Not a real career.

But let me tell you something:

This industry is far more than people realize.

Beauty professionals receive education in:

Science
Sanitation
Chemistry

Cosmetology training prepares professionals to protect the health and safety of their clients while delivering services that impact people’s confidence and well-being.

Beauty licensing exists for a reason.

The education beauty professionals receive ensures services are performed:

safely
hygienically
professionally

When I hear conversations about deregulating beauty licensing, it’s clear that many people pushing for it simply don’t understand what beauty professionals are trained to do.

Because in this industry:

Safety matters.
Sanitation matters.
Education matters.

“Cosmetology isn’t a fallback career. It’s a skilled profession that changes lives every single day.”

The Truth About Income in the Beauty Industry

Another myth I hear often is that beauty professionals don’t make good money.

During my career, I’ve managed salons and spas and run payroll. I’ve seen firsthand what stylists actually earn.

Some were making nearly six figures.

I also know many beauty professionals who make more than people with four-year college degrees.

The beauty industry itself is a multi-billion-dollar global industry.

And one thing will never go away:

The human desire to look and feel good.

As long as people care about confidence, self-expression, and personal care, beauty professionals will always play an important role.

The Many Career Paths a Cosmetology License Can Open

One thing I want to emphasize is how many opportunities exist in the beauty industry — opportunities I didn’t even fully understand when I first went to beauty school.

Over the years, I’ve worked:

Behind the chair as a stylist
In a beauty school
In professional beauty distribution
In sales and education

And each step opened new doors.

A cosmetology license can lead to careers such as:

Salon stylist or color specialist
Salon owner or manager
Beauty educator or school instructor
Platform artist or industry educator
Product educator or brand representative
Professional distributor sales consultant
Editorial or fashion stylist
And many more!

Your license isn’t just about doing hair.

It’s your passport to a diverse and creative career across the beauty industry.

I never would have had access to these opportunities without my cosmetology license.

Why Protecting Beauty Education Matters

Beauty school gave me a career, a community, and the ability to impact people’s lives every single day — while allowing me to be unapologetically myself.

But today, beauty education faces real challenges.

Conversations about deregulating beauty licensing or removing financial aid for beauty school programs threaten the future of this industry.

Protecting beauty education isn’t just about protecting jobs — it’s about protecting public safety, professional standards, and opportunities for future generations of beauty professionals.

Now more than ever, it’s critical for beauty professionals to make their voices heard.

Speak to lawmakers
Share your story
Stand up for beauty education

Encourage others to explore this career path and protect the licensing that ensures safety, professionalism, and expertise.

Advocate for the funding that helps provide opportunities to students who might not otherwise have access to this career.

Because this industry changes lives every day.

One haircut.
One color.
One client at a time.

Beauty school changed mine.

Let’s make sure it can continue changing countless others.

If someone you know is considering beauty school, send them this video from my friends at Prosper U. The opportunity in this industry is real—and bigger than most people realize.

LEARN MORE ABOUT TAYLOR NEFF

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How LTI Advantage Simplifies Digital Learning Integration for Trade Schools and Academic Institutions

Today’s schools need more than just great educational content—they need technology that integrates seamlessly with their existing systems. Whether you’re a cosmetology school, barbering program, wellness academy, high school CTE pathway, or public college trade program, managing multiple platforms can create unnecessary complexity for educators and students alike. We offer flexible digital content options to ensure our materials fit seamlessly into your unique learning needs.

Don’t need another platform to manage? That’s where LTI Advantage integration within Pivot Point’s LAB digital learning platform—built specifically for beauty, barbering, and wellness education—simplifies workflows, improves access, and enhances the learning experience by quickly and effortlessly bringing our content into courses set up on your LMS. Integration support includes Canvas, Moodle, Blackboard, Brightspace and other LTI-Compliant learning management systems.

Looking for even more flexibility? With our LTI integration, you can not only embed lessons directly into your Learning Management System (LMS) but also access fully developed question banks. These question banks are designed for seamless import into your school’s primary LMS, making it easy to create tests, quizzes, and assessments without extra setup. This allows educators to maintain consistency in evaluation, save time on administrative tasks, and ensure students receive a smooth, integrated learning experience.

What Is LTI Advantage?

LTI Advantage is an industry-standard technology that connects external learning tools directly to a school’s Learning Management System (LMS). Instead of requiring multiple logins or manual setup, LTI Advantage serves as a secure bridge that enables different platforms to communicate seamlessly.

For instructors and students, this means educational content becomes part of their existing learning environment — accessible with a single click.

Why LTI Integration Matters for Trade and Career Education Programs

Career-focused education programs for skilled trades — including cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, and nails— rely on hands-on training supported by structured digital learning. However, managing these resources across multiple systems can slow down adoption and reduce engagement.

By integrating Pivot Point LAB through LTI Advantage, institutions can:

Add lessons from Pivot Point LAB into your LMS without leaving the platform
Reduce administrative workload for instructors
Provide students with unified access to course materials
Maintain compliance with institutional data privacy standards
Works with different platforms, making it a great choice for schools of any size

This approach allows schools to focus on teaching, rather than troubleshooting technology. Instructors can deliver theory, demonstrations, and assessments alongside hands-on training requirements within a single learning environment.

How LTI Advantage Supports Hands-On Trade Education Workflows

Unlike traditional academic programs, beauty, barbering, and wellness education require a unique blend of theory-based learning, visual demonstration, and hands-on practice. Digital platforms must support both structured curriculum delivery and the real-world pace of practical training environments.

LTI Advantage helps bridge this gap by allowing instructors to integrate digital learning directly into the workflows they already use within their LMS.

For example, educators can:

Embed haircutting theory, color formulation lessons, or sanitation modules directly into course units alongside practical assignments.
Deliver step-by-step demonstrations and instructional videos within existing class structures in Canvas, Moodle, Blackboard, or Brightspace.
All-in-one access lets teachers find everything they need in their main platform without logging into multiple sites or apps.
Grades automatically appear in their system’s gradebook—no manual entry required.
Track student progress in your LMS without switching platforms.

By connecting Pivot Point LAB through LTI Advantage, institutions can create a cohesive learning experience where digital resources enhance — rather than interrupt — hands-on education.

This integration allows students to access learning materials when they need them, reinforcing technical skill development while simplifying instructional management for educators.

How Pivot Point LAB Enhances Digital Learning for Beauty, Barbering, and Wellness Education

Pivot Point LAB is a comprehensive digital learning platform designed specifically for skills-based education. It combines a structured curriculum, interactive learning tools, and progress tracking in a centralized environment designed for modern classrooms.

Designed specifically for beauty, barbering, and wellness education, LAB supports the unique blend of theory, demonstration, and practical skill development required in hands-on programs.

When paired with LTI Advantage, LAB becomes even more powerful:

ALL-IN-ONE ACCESS

Students and instructors can access lessons, assignments, and resources directly within their LMS without switching platforms. This reduces friction and increases engagement.

AUTOMATED GRADE SYNCHRONIZATION

Assessments automatically update within the LMS gradebook, eliminating manual data entry and reducing errors.

SEAMLESS CONTENT INTEGRATION

Teachers and Curriculum Directors can easily add entire lessons into existing courses with minimal setup.

SECURE DATA EXCHANGE

Built to industry standards, LTI Advantage helps ensure student data remains protected while maintaining system interoperability and keeping all data private.

Simplify Workflows with LMS Integration

Modern institutions rely on interconnected systems. Pivot Point LAB supports seamless integrations with Learning Management Systems (LMS) that streamline administrative processes.

Key benefits include:

Automated synchronization of enrollments
Integrated grading workflows
Reduced duplicate data entry
Faster onboarding for new students and courses

By automating routine processes, educators gain more time to focus on student success. This reduces manual administrative tasks and ensures that records remain accurate across systems.

For example, instructors and Curriculum Directors can embed haircutting theory, chemical service education, or wellness-focused curriculum directly into Canvas or Moodle courses, allowing students to access digital learning alongside hands-on training requirements.

LMS COMPATIBILITY

LTI Advantage works with any learning platform that supports the standard, allowing institutions to integrate educational content directly into:

Canvas by Instructure
Moodle
Blackboard (Anthology)
D2L Brightspace
and other LTI Advantage-compatible systems.

By embedding content directly into existing courses, educators can deliver engaging learning experiences without disrupting established workflows.

Designed for Schools of All Sizes

Whether you’re implementing digital curriculum in a single classroom or deploying across multiple campuses, LTI Advantage ensures compatibility with major LMS platforms.

This flexibility makes Pivot Point LAB a scalable solution for:

High school career and technical education (CTE) programs
Public colleges and community colleges
Trade schools and professional training programs
Workforce development initiatives

Getting Started Is Simple

Implementing LTI Advantage with Pivot Point LAB is designed to be straightforward:

Set up your account with support from our onboarding team.
Connect LAB to your LMS using secure LTI Advantage integration.
Test your configuration and launch your courses.

Our team guides you through setup while your institution maintains control of final testing and deployment.

Ready to Simplify Digital Learning?

LTI Advantage helps bring your tools, curriculum, and student data together into one streamlined experience. With Pivot Point LAB, schools can deliver engaging digital education while reducing administrative complexity.

If your institution is ready to simplify workflows, enhance student access, and modernize trade education, our team is here to help you get started.

Frequently Asked Questions About LTI Advantage and Pivot Point LAB

What is LTI Advantage, and how does it work with existing LMS platforms?

LTI Advantage is a standardized integration that enables external learning tools, such as Pivot Point LAB, to connect directly to a school’s Learning Management System. This allows instructors and students to access educational content within platforms such as Canvas, Moodle, Blackboard, or Brightspace without needing separate logins or manual setup.

Do students need to leave their LMS to access LAB content?

No. With LTI Advantage, LAB content can be embedded directly into existing courses. Students access lessons, assignments, and resources within their familiar LMS, creating a seamless learning experience.

How does LTI Advantage support hands-on trade education programs?

Trade education programs, including cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, and wellness training, require a balance of theory and practical application. LTI Advantage allows instructors to integrate digital theory, demonstrations, and assessments alongside hands-on training, helping students reinforce skills while simplifying course management for educators.

Which LMS platforms are compatible with Pivot Point LAB?

Pivot Point LAB integrates with leading LMS platforms that support LTI standards, including:

Canvas
Moodle
Blackboard
Brightspace (D2L)
and other LTI Advantage-compatible systems.

Is LTI Advantage secure?

Yes. LTI Advantage uses modern security protocols to protect student data and ensure safe communication between systems. Institutions maintain control over access while benefiting from secure data exchange between LAB and their LMS.

Is implementation difficult for schools?

No. Implementation is designed to be straightforward. Pivot Point’s onboarding team helps schools configure LTI integration, connect systems, and prepare for launch while allowing schools to maintain control over final testing and deployment.

Get Started with Pivot Point LAB and LTI Advantage

Ready to simplify digital learning and give your students seamless access to theory, demonstrations, and hands-on curriculum? LTI Advantage helps bring everything together in one place, making is easy for teachers and students to access lessons and track progress. Our team is here to help you.

GET STARTED TODAY

Integration Beyond LTI: SIS Connectivity and Flexible Deployment

Our integration capabilities go beyond content delivery. If you choose to use Pivot Point LAB as your preferred LMS, we partner with a number of SIS (Student Information System) providers to seamlessly automate data sharing and sync grades.

SIS COMPATIBILITY

Pivot Point LAB integrates with leading Student Information Systems (SIS) to streamline administrative workflows and reduce manual data entry. Through seamless synchronization, institutions can automate processes such as enrollments, grade reporting, and student access management.

Supported SIS integrations include:

By connecting directly with your SIS, LAB helps ensure accurate data flow between systems, enabling educators and administrators to manage student progress efficiently while maintaining compliance with institutional requirements.

Can Pivot Point LAB integrate with Student Information Systems (SIS)?

Yes. LAB supports integrations with several SIS platforms to streamline administrative workflows, including Campus Login (Campus Nexus), CourseKey, EduLAR, Pathway Labs, Prestige, and other compatible systems. These integrations help automate enrollments, grade synchronization, and student data management.

INTEGRATE TODAY

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Pro Beauty Pulse: Monthly Data Revealing What’s Really Happening in the Beauty Industry

Understanding what’s really happening across the professional beauty industry requires more than anecdotal feedback — it requires reliable data, consistent benchmarking, and ongoing industry collaboration. To help meet this need, Pivot Point and the Professional Beauty Association (PBA) have partnered to introduce Pro Beauty Pulse, a recurring industry check-in designed to provide timely insights into both professional and education segments of the beauty landscape.

What Is Pro Beauty Pulse?

Pro Beauty Pulse delivers a real-time snapshot of industry performance across beauty schools, salons, and both commission-based and independent professionals. By combining performance data with sentiment tracking, the initiative helps industry leaders better understand current trends, benchmark against peers, and make more informed business and education decisions.

Rather than relying on isolated surveys or anecdotal observations, Pro Beauty Pulse brings together multiple data sources to provide a more accurate and actionable view of the industry.

Data-Driven Insights Backed by Real Performance Metrics

Each report integrates insights from The KIM Report, which aggregates sales and service data from more than 10,000 salons and solopreneurs. Participating businesses maintain at least 24 consecutive months on the same software platform, ensuring consistency, reliability, and meaningful trend analysis over time.

By combining real-world performance data with industry sentiment, Pro Beauty Pulse offers a balanced perspective that reflects both measurable outcomes and the lived experiences of professionals and educators.

Why Industry Benchmarking Matters Now

As the beauty industry continues to evolve — shaped by changing consumer behavior, workforce dynamics, and education pathways — access to timely, reliable insights becomes increasingly important. Pro Beauty Pulse provides schools, salons, and professionals with the ability to:

Benchmark performance against industry peers
Identify emerging trends earlier
Support strategic planning and decision-making
Understand shifts across education and professional sectors

Access the Latest Pro Beauty Pulse Report

(preview of January 2026 results)

👉 View the latest Pro Beauty Pulse report (March 2026)

Previous Reports

About PBA (Professional Beauty Association)

The Professional Beauty Association (PBA) is the largest trade organization in the United States representing the entire beauty industry, including licensed professionals, salon owners, manufacturers, and students. Access industry resources, education, advocacy, and networking opportunities.

About Pivot Point Research

The Pivot Point Research team understands industry relationships and trends, delivering actionable, real-world insights that meet your research objectives.

Whether your research is for internal intelligence or to support sales and marketing, we can help you. We recognize that a quick turnaround is often a key consideration. Our industry relationships and experience enable us to provide the most time-effective solution. Explore all your research options with Pivot Point Research.

WE LOOK FORWARD TO WORKING WITH YOU!

https://www.pivot-point.com/research/

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2026 Intercoiffure Student Contest

Intercoiffure and Pivot Point Launch 2026 Student Contest Celebrating The Tapestry of Texture

“As a future professional, what makes the texture hair category exciting to you?”

Honoring Beauty School Teachers

Intercoiffure America Canada

Babe Hair Extensions Partner Spotlight

A Classroom-First Approach to Extension Education

Teaching the Full Extension Experience

Learning by Doing: A Focus on Hands-On Training

What’s New in Babe 2.0

More Flexible Teaching Tools

Expanded Interactive Learning

NEW: Express Extension Services

Preparing Students for Life Behind the Chair

Built to Support Educators and Schools

Explore Babe Hair Extensions on LAB

Join Our Webinar to Learn More

Enhance Beauty School Curricula with Content Partners

Laced Hair Now Available On LAB

What Is Laced Hair?

Learn Hair Extension Techniques Step by Step

Hair Extension Certification and Career Preparation

A Valuable Resource for Beauty Schools and Educators

Why Hair Extension Training Matters for Students

Explore Laced Hair on LAB

Join Our Webinars to Learn More

Enhance Beauty School Curricula with Content Partners

How Beauty Educators Can Work Smarter with AI

My Journey Exploring AI

From Small Wins to Bigger Possibilities

A Layered Approach to AI

Level 1 – AI Digital Assistant

Level 2 – AI Coordinator

Level 3 – AI Research & Data Analyst

Level 4 – AI Strategic Advisor

Level 5 – AI Mentor or Coach

Creativity and Connection Still Come First When Teaching

What You Can Do with AI

A Final Thought on AI Tools

Looking Ahead at AI in Beauty Education

Earth Month 2026: Sustainability In Action

Turning Sustainability Into Action

Green Beauty Community Guidebook: A Resource for Sustainable Salons

Green Beauty Community Impact Tour: Bringing Sustainability Education to You

Cap Series Recovery Program: Reducing Industry Waste

Available Now: Sustainable Education on LAB

Join the Sustainability Movement

Introducing Pivot Point Pro

Professional Development Designed for Beauty, Barber, and Wellness Educators

Earn Continuing Education Hours

Earn Certification Through Expertise

Built on Pivot Point’s Proven Teaching Methodology

Supporting Lifelong Learning for Professionals in the Industry

Explore Pivot Point Pro

Join Our Webinar to Learn More

LABX Live 2026: Where Education Comes To Life

What Makes LABX LIVE Different

Earn CE Hours While Advancing Your Skills

The Power of Learning Together

Why In-Person Learning Matters

Join Us for LABX LIVE 2026

LABX LIVE 2024 Recap

Why Beauty Education Matters: My Journey to Cosmetology School

Speak Up for Beauty Education Now

Starting Beauty School

A Career That Is So Much More Than Hair

The Myth That Beauty Careers Aren’t “Real Careers”

The Truth About Income in the Beauty Industry

The Many Career Paths a Cosmetology License Can Open

Why Protecting Beauty Education Matters

Simplifying LMS Integration with LTI Advantage

How LTI Advantage Simplifies Digital Learning Integration for Trade Schools and Academic Institutions

What Is LTI Advantage?

Why LTI Integration Matters for Trade and Career Education Programs

How LTI Advantage Supports Hands-On Trade Education Workflows

How Pivot Point LAB Enhances Digital Learning for Beauty, Barbering, and Wellness Education

Simplify Workflows with LMS Integration

Designed for Schools of All Sizes

Getting Started Is Simple

Ready to Simplify Digital Learning?