Apprentices seeking career inspiration need look no further than hairdresser Liam Hogan, who successfully made the transition from Nelson and Colne College apprentice to business owner at the salon that trained him!

For young people who are career minded and driven, an apprenticeship is often an over-looked route into their dream career. Being an apprentice gives young people the opportunity to gain a recognised qualification and develop professional skills, while earning a salary, inside some of Britain’s best companies…Or like Nelson and Colne College apprentice Liam, a route into business ownership!

25 year old Liam, from Burnley is giving inspiration to other young apprentices, by showing that an apprenticeship can be a fantastic route into their dream career. Liam started at the College 5 years ago and spent 2 years on a ESF Funded project, volunteering for 2 years at Image Hair and Beauty in Burnley to gain the relevant experience.  So impressed were the salon with his dedication and drive that the salon took him on as an Apprentice, where he completed Level 3 in Hairdressing and Level 2 Barbering. The College has been equally impressed with Liam’s work ethic, so much so that he was named as Young Apprentice of the Year – Barbering at its awards ceremony in 2013.

In April 2014, the opportunity arose for Liam to take the reins at Image Hair and Beauty and he bought the business, proving that apprentices really do have what it takes to succeed! This month Liam also expanded the business to encompass an old-fashioned, traditional barbering shop!

Kathryn Walsh, Hairdressing Tutor/Assessor for Nelson and Colne College said, “Liam’s story is fantastic – and brilliant for inspiring other young people who are thinking about starting an apprenticeship. Liam faced some tough barriers to complete his training and should be very proud of what he achieved. He took on the salon where he himself was an apprentice and I am sure he will by a big success!”