From Corporate Layoff to Career Fulfillment: How College of Hair Design Supports Real Student Success

Before stepping into barbering, Alan, a College of Hair Design alum, spent years in the corporate world while quietly building a passion project on the side — his beard care brand, Big Dob’s Beard Balm. After an unexpected layoff, he made the bold decision to leave behind a stable career and pursue something more fulfilling. Today, he’s not only a licensed barber and co-owner of his own barbershop, but also a growing entrepreneur with his products now featured in the CHD barber shop. His story is a powerful example of how CHD supports students at every stage of their journey.

Not every career path is linear, and at College of Hair Design, that’s exactly the point.

For many students, barbering isn’t just a first step. It’s a second chance, a passion realized, or a bold pivot toward something more meaningful.

For Alan, that journey began in a completely different world.

“I was never a good fit for the corporate world … A creatively minded metalhead doesn’t belong in a cubicle tied to a laptop.”

After years working at LinkedIn, a layoff became the moment everything changed.

Choosing a New Path At the Right Time

Like many adults balancing family and financial responsibility, the safe option was clear — find another corporate job. In fact, the opportunity was already there.

“I could have the job if I wanted it. I’ve always been a provider … but I hesitated. I didn’t really want the job.”

Instead, he chose something different.

A conversation years earlier with a CHD educator came back to him at exactly the right time:

“I see the makings of a great barber in you … If life ever changes … I want you to give me a call.”

That moment stuck. And when the opportunity came, he acted on it immediately, enrolling at College of Hair Design and starting a completely new chapter.

Building Skills and Confidence from the Ground Up

Starting over in a new career at 41, with no prior barbering experience, takes courage and commitment. But CHD provided the tools and guidance Alan needed to succeed.

“Having never cut hair before in my life, CHD gave me a good foundation for the real world behind the chair.”

This experience went beyond the classroom. Real growth came from working with actual clients and learning in real-time.

“It is only when you have the tools in your hands, cutting real hair, and trying to meet someone’s real-world expectations that skill truly manifests.”

And just as important as the technical training was support from his educators.

“They were patient and encouraging every step of the way … Not once did they make me feel inadequate or stupid for asking questions.”

That kind of environment makes a difference, especially for students taking a risk on a second career.

From Student to Entrepreneur

Even before barber school, Alan had already started building something of his own — Big Dob’s Beard Balm, a product born from curiosity and creativity.

“After a few purchases I felt like I was getting a little ripped off. I decided to take a swing at making my own thing.”

What started as a personal project quickly turned into a business, and today, it continues to grow alongside his barbering career.

In a full-circle moment, his products are now sold inside the CHD barber shop.

“It felt great to get my products into CHD and getting the other barbers on board with it.”

This is where CHD stands out. Not just teaching students, but actively supporting their career goals and entrepreneurial efforts.

Life After CHD

Today, his career looks completely different than it once did.

“I go to my barbershop every day to work with my best friend. My name is on the building … I made it through and can say I’m a barber.”

It’s more than a job — it’s ownership, independence, and pride in what he’s built.

“I consider that to be victory.”

Advice for Future Students

For anyone considering barber school, his advice is straightforward and honest.

“Take it seriously and learn how to be a professional. Don’t waste your downtime.”

Success doesn’t just come from showing up — it comes from putting in the work early and staying focused on your goals.

Create Your Own Story at College of Hair Design

Every student’s path is different, but the opportunity is the same — to build something real.

At College of Hair Design, students gain more than technical skills. They gain confidence, support, and the ability to create a career on their own terms.

“There are levels to this. CHD got me to the apprentice stage.”

And from there, the path is yours to build.

Begin your barbering, cosmetology, or esthetics career today!

Read Alan’s full interview here: Alan CHD Alumni Student Success Interview