Programs
Excellence in Education
Our educational programs are designed for students just like you who are looking for a long-term, successful career in the beauty industry. By attending The Salon Professional Academy, you will receive a well rounded education in hair, skin, and nails. All of our programs enable your success, significantly improving your earning potential and preparing you to become a future industry leader.
Innovative Training Techniques and Business Building Skills
At The Salon Professional Academy, you will be taught not only the latest trends and techniques in cosmetology, but also the critical business building skills needed to achieve greater success in the industry such as scheduling, running a front desk and communicating effectively with clients.
Educators Who Empower and Motivate
Our trained educators are accessible, approachable and committed to your success. They will empower you to explore your creativity and gain confidence in your abilities through one-on-one, in the classroom and on the floor instruction.
Meet Our Director of Education, Mrs. Nelson!
Penny Nelson has been the Director of Education for the Salon Professional Academy since the school opened its doors in 2006. Penny’s extensive knowledge and experience in the cosmetology field are an asset to the school and its students. Penny graduated in 1987 from the Stevens Point Area Beauty Academy and began her career as a stylist at JC Penny’s in Stevens Point. In 1989 she and her husband relocated to Madison where, after additional education and experience, she became a salon director at RZ and Company. As a salon director, one of her responsibilities was to train new employees. In 2002, Penny and her family relocated to Onalaska where she began working at Sue Kolve’s Salon and Day Spa.
As the Director of Education for the Salon Professional Academy, Penny’s responsibilities include mentoring and training educators, writing curriculum and over seeing the day-to-day operations of the school. However, her real love is coaching and mentoring the students as they prepare for their future careers in the cosmetology industry.
“I believe to be successful in life you need to surround yourself with successful people," says Penny. "Throughout my career I have been fortunate to work with and for people who have this same philosophy. I look back at my career as a stylist behind the chair and I have to thank the people who believed that sharing their knowledge and skill with others makes everyone better. Individuals like Ruth Zacharias, Michael Cole, and Sue Kolve were key role models for me who stressed professionalism, integrity, and the concept of paying it forward. If it weren't’t for my past and present employers as well as co-workers I would have never been as successful.”
"I went into education because I believe it is my turn to pay it forward. I hope my experience and knowledge will help someone else accomplish their dreams and to be as rewarded in their career as I have been in mine."
When asked “what is the one key attribute that every cosmetologist needs to be successful,” Penny replies, “communication.” “The most important thing in cosmetology is communication. If you can listen first and respond with great customer service, then success will follow.” This statement is definitely true about Penny Nelson.
Ms. Julie, Foundations Educator
Julie Barthelme has been a part of the TSPA team since 2007. The cosmetology profession has always been part of Julie's life as she is a the third generation of educators in her family. Julie obtained her initial license at Southeast Technical School in Winona, Minnesota. In the 22 years in which she has been in the industry, Julie has had the opportunity to practice, own, and manage a full service salon in Las Vegas, NV. In 2000, Julie returned to the Midwest and pursued her educator license, which she now holds in both Minnesota and Wisconsin. In 2010, she became a certified hair colorist through Redken. When asked about Julie's favorite part of the cosmetology industry, she responded that she loves how the industry is constantly evolving and improving. Julie feels she has come full circle in her profession from student to practitioner and now to educator and is grateful that she has the opportunity to be a part of the next generation of cosmetology professionals.
We Provide Real-World Learning
The Salon Professional Academy is well equipped to offer the latest educational opportunities and services. This offers you a positive, real-world learning environment to hone your skills while effectively communicating and interacting with clients.
Endless Industry Opportunities
Upon graduation you don’t necessarily need to be “just behind a chair.” Graduates have many exciting positions to pursue within the industry including photo and movie stylist, platform artist, spa/salon manager and owner, beauty product representative, cosmetology educator and even a beauty magazine editor. Don’t wait to get started on your exciting career.
