SANFORD -- Do you care about your appearance? Would you like to help others look their best? If so, perhaps you should consider a career as a professional barber.

The Central Carolina Community College Barbering program currently meets at the West Harnett Center, located just off Hwy. 87 at 145 Olive Farm Drive, Sanford.

Following the fall semester, the program will move to CCCC's new Dunn Campus. The college is one of over 22 agencies involved in the renovation of the former Harnett High School, which is on the North Carolina Historic Preservation Office study list.

"This is a great opportunity for folks who live in the Dunn area and would like to take classes to become a licensed barber," said Dr. Stephen L. Athans, CCCC's Dean of Vocational and Technical Programs. "The newly remodeled Harnett High School is a historical structure in Dunn and is being beautifully repurposed. Both the facility and instruction will be outstanding."

The college has worked closely with the State Board of Barbering in the development of this instructional program. Students can work toward an Associate in Applied Science in Barbering degree. Barbering Diploma and Barbering Certificate programs are available.

The Barbering program will focus on hair care, shampooing, cutting and styling, along with instructional components in shaving, beard and mustaches trimming and cutting, facial massage, hair treatments, hygiene and professional ethics. Advanced classes will cover coloring, hairpieces, and scalp treatments.

Instruction is a combination of lecture and hands-on training. Following initial classes, students will be able to work with clients. With the completion of the instruction program, graduates should be prepared to take the state licensing examination.

Barbering is an excellent career choice for individuals who enjoy being their own boss. People skills are essential. Being a good listener and communicating clearly are important in establishing good customer relations. An understanding of fashion trends is helpful. Communication, personal image, and attitude are important factors in career success.

Those interested in the Barbering program can complete the application online at www.cccc.edu. To be admitted to this program, applicants must have a high school diploma or high school equivalency. All students are required to submit a FBI Criminal Record Summary Report and have their student permit processed through the Barbering school prior to the beginning of class.

For more information on the CCCC Barbering program, please contact the Barbering Admissions Counselor at 919-718-7526 or 800-682-8353 ext. 7526.

For more information on Central Carolina Community College, visit the website www.cccc.edu.