March is Women’s History Month and an opportunity to celebrate how far women have come. While we hear a lot about how women are underrepresented in math and science professions, we’re unlikely to hear much about women’s achievements in beauty career fields.
Yet over the past century, beauty career paths have created thousands of successful career paths and businesses. From product developers and beauty editors to backstage stylists, day spa owners and salon professionals, it’s estimated that more than 820,000 people work in the beauty industry today. Even more remarkable is that these jobs are projected to grow.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook 2010-11 Edition– projects that careers in cosmetology will grow much faster than the national average. Skincare (esthetics) careers are projected to grow 38 percent through 2018 with overall cosmetology jobs growing about 20 percent for the period 2008 through 2018. These jobs aren’t just in big cities, but in virtually every American town.
Perhaps the most alluring part of a career in beauty is its staying power. Consider:
· Jobs in the beauty industry are not subject to off-shoring – at least until someone invents a way to get a haircut from a call center
· Jobs in the beauty industry are not likely to be replaced with technology – until a computer can provide a haircut and color
· Jobs in the beauty industry provide what many young people are wanting more of today – life/work balance and the opportunity to create a schedule that lets people do what they love while also finding time for their loved ones. For this reason alone, beauty careers are an attractive choice for mothers and caregivers
Perhaps the most beautiful thing about the beauty industry is its commitment to helping others. Each year, salons, beauty schools and manufacturers contribute thousands of hours of service to programs benefiting their community.
Yes, we need careers in math, science and emerging technology fields. But let’s not forget about the opportunities available to those who want to make the world a more beautiful place.
