Blow Academy opens on UCD campus in Dublin

Blow Academy has been officially opened on the UCD campus in Dublin by the Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail Neale Richmond.

The new education hub is the latest business venture from Noelle McCarthy, owner of the Blow Salons chain, which has four branches in Dublin.

McCarthy founded Blow in 2002 with the aim of providing hair services to clients outside of regular working hours. It began operating early in the morning so busy professionals could get to the salon before the office, and it also opened later in the evenings and on Sundays.

Now, after more than two decades in the industry, McCarthy has moved into education to offer students full and part-time courses in a range of specialities, including hair, nails, make-up, brows, waxing, facials and cosmetology. Blow Academy will have flexible learning options, along with programmes to suit different levels of expertise.

“We have created a nurturing environment and a committed team, who are passionate about sharing their expertise,” she said. “This is a fulfilling industry that offers tremendous career potential and embraces inclusion, positivity and diversity.”

According to Minster Redmond, the hair and beauty industry is experiencing a skills shortage.

“Academies like this are a great way to remind students that there are plenty of opportunities for training and employment in the industry,” he added.