KZ Academy

KZ Academy is a barber and cosmetology school at 1221 E Calaveras Blvd in Milpitas, California. It runs four training programs: barbering, cosmetology, skin care specialist and nail technician. The school is headed by Makara Vu, a master stylist who serves as CEO of Kittiez Incorporated.

Instruction combines classroom theory, demonstrations and workshops with hands-on practice on the student salon floor. Classes are kept small so each student receives individual attention. Students practice on real customers at the student salon, Kz Cutz, in Milpitas.

The barbering program covers clipper cutting, shears-over-comb technique, shampooing, facial massage, shaving and shop management, along with state law, sterilization, sanitation, hygiene and common skin disorders. The cosmetology program covers hair color, cutting, styling, nail care, facials, hair removal, makeup, hair treatments, chemical texture services, and hair additions and wigs, alongside chemistry, anatomy, salon ecology and salon business. The school describes its cosmetology course as among the most advanced, creative and comprehensive available.

The esthetician program requires 600 hours and usually takes five to six months. Coursework includes facial treatments, body procedures, makeup, electricity and machines in esthetics, and hair removal. A certificate is awarded once the hours, exams and financial obligations are complete, and graduates are eligible to apply for an esthetician license from the State Board of California. The nail technician program covers safety and health, infection control, massage, wraps, extensions, gel nails and nail art, and prepares students for California state licensing exams.

Students must pass an exam given by the school before sitting for the state board licensing exam. The school helps each student find a work placement. Graduates may work as salon stylists, session or editorial stylists, educators, stylists for film, TV or theater, or in product development, retail, management or salon ownership. The school states its goal is for graduates to be highly employable in the industry. Hours are Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, and every other Saturday, 10am to 5pm. Phone is (408) 520-2532 and email is info@kzacademy.com.

Blends classroom theory and demonstrations with hands-on work on the student salon floor, in small classes.