Career Change to Cosmetology After Military Service: Is It Realistic?

Question
Hairman,

I will be retiring from the United States Air Force in 4 years. I have always wanted to be a cosmetologist/hairstylist. Here's the kicker. When I retire I will be 45 years old. Is it realistic to think that I can/will be hired when the market is saturated with younger people of equivalent training?

Matthew

Answer
Matthew,
 First of all, thank you for your service to our country. We all owe you a debt of gratitude.
It is perfectly realistic. I say this for several reasons. As a more "mature" student, you'll be more hungry to learn and apply yourself, and not out partying nights like many of your younger classmates. You'll be more serious than many as well, so you'll be apt to excel more. Take advantage of every opportunity to learn and practice and refine your skills so that you'll be at an advantage over your younger classmates. Something you'll also have in your favor is that your prospective employer will likely appreciate that you have the training, regimentation and responsibility that comes from serving in the military. It means that they can depend on your being dependable and reliable and ready to actually work when you arrive each day. A big joke in my salon is that most are much older and although we would like to get some younger staff, most of the time we older folks work circles around them.
 Just learn all you can while in school and ask around at some better salons if you can hang out and watch while in school, to learn. Most would be flattered and it will be a foot in the door for you.
 In the meantime, you can even start getting some information on the net. There are many videos on youtube on cutting, hair color and such, that will give you some basic insight into the profession.
Best of luck to you.
Stephe (hairman)