With the launch of an esthetician program this fall at Chattahoochee Tech, students will have the opportunity to pursue a rewarding career in the beauty industry.
Estheticians are licensed skin care professionals who help people look and feel their best. They provide facial treatments to improve the health and appearance of the skin, along with services that include makeup techniques, hair removal, spa therapies and more. The college’s Mountain View Campus in Cobb County is undergoing an extensive renovation this summer to house this new program of study. Esthetician students at Chattahoochee Tech will be able to gain hands-on experience in an appealing real-world setting to ensure they are well-prepared for entering the workforce.
Working to bring this program of study to life for the fall semester at Chattahoochee Tech is instructor Hope Skapinetz. “I envision a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with extensive real-world, hands-on practical experience,” said Skapinetz, “ensuring that graduates pass state boards and enter the workforce with the skills and confidence to thrive in this competitive field.”
Skapinetz has over 25 years of experience as a licensed esthetician. During her career, she specialized in clinical esthetics working closely with a plastic surgeon, focusing on preoperative and postoperative treatments. In various spa settings, she has served as lead esthetician, refining her skills in delivering exceptional client care and advanced skincare treatments. For the past 14 years, she served as a licensed esthetics instructor for the Atlanta Institute of Aesthetics, guiding students through all aspects of the industry.
At Chattahoochee Tech, esthetician students will receive comprehensive training in areas that include skincare techniques, product knowledge and customer service. “This program will not only educate students in the latest beauty, skincare techniques and technologies, but also prepare them to excel in clinical and spa environments,” said Skapinetz.
“Looking forward, my passion lies in establishing a new esthetician program that prioritizes the student experience,” said Skapinetz. “My goal is to create an environment that fosters support, patience and growth.”
Students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to secure their spot in the new esthetician program at Chattahoochee Tech. Final registration for the fall semester is Wednesday, Aug. 14. The Chattahoochee Tech fall semester begins on Monday, Aug. 19.
Estheticians typically work in salons, beauty and health spas, and dermatologist offices. Some estheticians also are self-employed. To become a licensed esthetician in Georgia, students must first complete a licensed esthetics training program and then pass both the written and practical state examinations for esthetician licensure. Esthetician licensure in the state of Georgia is regulated by the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers. Overall employment of skincare specialists is projected to grow 9 percent between now and 2032, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.