By SANDRA THAMES / Community Columnist

This month marks the 25th anniversary of Mitchell Cosmetology College, known far and wide as the solution to hair care on a frugal budget.

With an original background in industrial management, Jacksonville State University grad, Tim Mitchell was previously employed by Vulcan Materials and Abex. However, nearly 30 years ago, he was persuaded to give cosmetology a try with the express purpose of later opening his own beauty college.

Mitchell graduated from East Lake Beauty College, honed his skills at different shops and then started to fulfill his dream.

In the 1980’s Alabaster’s Main Street was practically deserted when he decided to locate there. Now it’s quite a surprise to open the door to that location. There are areas with “stations fully equipped,” technique training areas and Mitchell’s office. I saw hair being cut, colored and permed and clients from 8 to 80. The school is open to the public and walk-ins welcome. The atmosphere was friendly and I got the feeling that perhaps a common goal and mutual respect reigned.

Fifteen hundred clock hours are needed for graduation. This usually takes about 11 months. Compare Mitchell’s tuition with other Birmingham area colleges, and you will see just how affordable it is to achieve one’s dream. Some of the girls and guys already have jobs waiting for them upon graduation.

A member of the National Cosmetology Association of the Hair America Design Team, the Alabama Republican Capital Club, the Shelby County Republican Committee, the Shriners and the Masons, Mitchell prefers the single life and loves helping his fellow man. He credits his “work hard, do your best the first time” attitude to his early mentors Gordan Williams and George Spencer.

In the 1980’s Mitchell traveled all over the world. He loved Greece, the Aegean Sea and the Caribbean Isles. Now he chooses to work, work, work. He does tons of paperwork on certifications, techniques, supplies, cost analysis, advertising, individual grading, etc., each night without fail.

Don’t wait until you have a hair boo-boo, go in and meet Tim Mitchell personally. Twenty-five years of experience and management backs his reputation.

 

Community columnist Sandra Thames can be reached by e–mail at bobthames1942@yahoo.com.