Jamie Lugo

Jaime Lugo’s passion for hair cutting has been a constant throughout his life – from his teen years growing up in Plainfield, through his service in the Marines, to his current journey as a barber student at Triton College.

“When I wasn’t playing sports in high school, I was cutting my friends’ hair in my basement,” he said. “I started cutting hair at an early age.”

Lugo joined the United States Marine Corps (USMC) in 2015 and served six years, completing three deployments to the Middle East.

“It’s humbling,” he said of his military experience. “Transitioning back into civilian life was difficult, but I had good people around me to help me every step of the way.”

After returning home from service, Lugo held various jobs, including construction. He described the environment as “tough, alpha males working together,” and felt a sense of “grit” that he experienced as a Marine. After becoming a father, Lugo said he “softened” a bit but continued to look for a career that was more stable and aligned with his kids’ schedules.

Never losing his passion for hair cutting, Lugo resumed working in barbershops. Driven by his enthusiasm, Lugo searched for barbering schools and chose Triton College for its affordability, proximity to his home, and support for veterans through the GI Bill, which helps cover the cost of education and training.

“There’s plenty of programs and incentives at Triton that make student life feel a lot easier,” he said.

Now in his 30s, Lugo joked that being around younger classmates brings him back to reality. He enjoys learning the newer barbering trends and current culture from his peers.

“Once I obtain my barbering license, I would like to open my own shop,” he said. “There’s a communal sense in a barber shop. It’s a place where people gather to feel better about themselves and crack jokes.”

Lugo said his favorite part of barbering is making men feel confident.

“I love showing guys the end result,” he said. “I like showing them, ‘this is who you are!’ That guy will look himself in the mirror and walk out of the shop a little taller.”

Triton College’s Barber Certificate Program offers a comprehensive education in the art and science of barbering, combining hands-on training with academic instruction. Learn more about the program here.