Z is the Barber Educator at the Bradenton Campus, where he has been part of the AIB team for four months since the opening of the campus! With over seven years in the beauty industry and a passion for education that began at a young age, Z finds the most fulfillment in the positive impact he has on the minds of students and graduates alike. He values the lessons learned on both sides of being a student and graduate, and takes pride in witnessing growth, goals met, and unexpected breakthroughs along the way.

When it comes to the beauty industry, Z loves the freedom of expression it offers, the inspiration that comes from peers and collaborative salon/barbershop environments, and the ever-evolving nature of trends that keep the industry fresh and exciting.

Z brings an incredibly diverse background to AIB, holding licenses in both Barbering and Massage Therapy. His education includes a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts, a Master’s in Cinematic Drawing & Animation, and a Doctorate in Art History. He has also earned an impressive range of certifications and accolades, including a certification as an Army Master Fitness Instructor through NASM, multiple top-10 finishes in Tough Mudder and Spartan Race competitions, Jumpmaster parachute certification, a Best Ranger Competition win on ESPN, experience as an athletic trainer for Texas Football, Track, & Field youth sports, and an HVAC Universal License.

Outside of the classroom, Z enjoys CrossFit training, grilling with his grandkids, remote controlled (RC) car repair, and electric football as a hobbyist and artist.

One of his quotes to live by: “Standing on the shoulders of elders and ancestors, we owe it to those who were the blueprint for our freedoms. They walked so we could run today. So, I’m only in competition with myself, for the relentless pursuit of happiness and legacy making.”

We appreciate Z’s commitment to the success of our future professionals that he provides every day, along with his motivating attitude towards EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE! We Thank You!