Training Map: From Student to Shear Specialist

How to use this map

Use this guide as a modular syllabus. Each phase builds on the previous, so you can jump in at your current level or run the full 12-month cycle with your team.

Phase 1 — Foundation (Months 1–3)

Focus: Ergonomics, core cutting mechanics, daily maintenance habits.

• Complete the Start Here cluster: Orientation, Tool Fit Assessment, Maintenance Basics.
• Drill scissor grip, elevation, and body positioning with mannequins twice a week.
• Log every maintenance task in a simple spreadsheet or the salon’s operations binder.
• Shadow a senior stylist and note shear choices for different textures.

Checkpoint: You can cut a blunt bob and long layer with neutral wrist alignment and articulate why your shear choice matches the technique.

Phase 2 — Tool Mastery (Months 4–6)

Focus: Steel literacy, blade selection, and buying strategy.

• Study key resources in the Tool Mastery cluster (steel alloys, handle ergonomics, investment strategy).
• Compare your main shear to at least two demo models, documenting fit and cutting feel.
• Build a replacement and sharpening budget using insights from Buying Decisions.
• Register your current shears at Register and set calendar reminders for sharpening.

Checkpoint: You can explain the edge type, steel grade, and tension system of your primary shears and have a documented plan for servicing them.

Phase 3 — Technique Expansion (Months 7–9)

Focus: Texture, precision, and efficiency.

• Choose three guides from the Cutting Techniques cluster (e.g., point cutting, shear-over-comb, dry vs wet strategies).
• Film yourself performing each technique and review with a mentor or peer.
• Pair deliberate practice with relevant reference entries (Blade Types, Edge Types, Hair Types).
• Track timing improvements and client feedback to measure progress.

Checkpoint: You deliver consistent results across at least three advanced techniques and have before/after documentation.

Phase 4 — Professional Edge (Months 10–12)

Focus: Business integration, education, and leadership.

• Dive into Business & Compliance guides (pricing, CE matrix, insurance risk) that match your role.
• If you manage a team, adapt this training map into a salon-wide curriculum and schedule quarterly skill shares.
• Explore at least one education provider from the Education Hub and log upcoming events in your calendar.
• Update your portfolio and client messaging to highlight new capabilities.

Checkpoint: You have a repeatable education cadence, documented SOPs, and clear value stories to use in marketing or performance reviews.

Building your personal syllabus

Month	Focus	Primary guide(s)	Practice plan	Notes
1	Fit & maintenance	Orientation, Tool Fit	2 mannequin sessions/week
2	Daily care mastery	Maintenance Basics	Maintenance log
3	Buying prep	Buying Decisions	Dealer research
…	…	…	…	…

Make a copy of this table in Notion, Google Sheets, or paper. Update weekly and review with your mentor or manager.

Prefer a ready-made sheet? Build a simple training planner in your preferred spreadsheet and duplicate it into your drive for quick scheduling.

Staying accountable

• Schedule bi-weekly check-ins with a fellow stylist.
• Share progress in your salon’s education channel or group chat.
• Celebrate wins—new certifications, faster finishing times, improved client retention.

Next steps

1. Print this map and add it to your station or digital workflow.
2. Subscribe to Latest Updates so you never miss new Learning Hub releases.
3. Plan a quarterly recap session to decide which advanced clusters you will tackle next.