Why Axcelr8?

As a seasoned licensed cosmetology instructor and also a dedicated salon owner, I have observed a concerning lack of quality and a genuine understanding of the essential elements involved in hair cutting and hair coloring. It is crucial to grasp not only the technical skills but also the underlying reasons—such as the 'Why,' 'When,' 'How,' and the 'What If' scenarios—when it comes to executing hair artistry effectively. It appears that many individuals are merely repeating the same diluted steps showcased on social media platforms, resulting in a homogeneous approach that lacks depth.

Furthermore, many schools unfortunately do not equip their students with the comprehensive knowledge necessary to truly understand the intricacies of hair maintenance and design. This gap often leads stylists to seek knowledge through online learning. Sadly, the majority of online courses fall short in addressing the 'How' and 'Why,' leaving stylists unable to fully explore the possibilities and develop critical thinking in their craft. I felt a strong motivation to step in and help bridge this educational divide.

With nearly 28 years of experience teaching for esteemed manufacturers such as Aveda, Paul Mitchell, Arrojo, Chromastics, Ergo, and Karg, I reached a significant point in my career where I wanted to give back to the community. By offering high-quality education, I aim to facilitate the growth and development of fellow stylists. The techniques I teach have been rigorously tested and proven to yield exceptional results, as they have been effectively employed in my salon for over 26 years.

Who is Stephen Adams?

Principal Educator and

Founder of Axceler8 Academy

Stephen Adams is a highly respected hair educator, esteemed business strategist, and innovative creative leader with over 33 years of extensive experience firmly rooted in the beauty and cosmetology industry. As the Founder and co-owner of Moxie Hair Salon—established in 1999—along with founding the Beauty Certified Education Association in 2012, and serving as the principal educator at Axcelr8 Academy since its inception in 2022, Stephen has established a remarkable reputation for elevating industry standards through his commitment to innovative education, strategic business development, and adept brand management. His expertise encompasses not only hair cutting and coloring but also salon operations, positioning him as a trusted mentor to stylists and salon professionals across the nation.

Stephen’s illustrious career is defined by his unwavering dedication to education. He has worked as a national and international educator, collaborating with esteemed brands such as Aveda, Paul Mitchell, and Arrojo. It was during this vital stage in his career that he began to train stylists at various experience levels. Renowned for his remarkable creativity and precision, he has mastered the art of crafting exquisite hairstyles using a razor. As the acclaimed Nick Arrojo aptly states, “Stephen is a Wizard; he can do everything—Amazing Cuts, Beautiful Colors, and he is also proficient in styling hair." His versatility allows him to excel in all areas, but his greatest strengths lie in hair cutting and color chemistry.

As a Coach, Mentor, Creative, and Education Director, Stephen has played a pivotal role in restructuring educational programs for several salons. He has also helped to develop strategic recruiting initiatives while directly recruiting and training new stylists. Moreover, he has led dynamic marketing campaigns and partnered with national educators to deliver cutting-edge training sessions. Stephen’s unwavering dedication to inspiring creativity and facilitating growth within the beauty industry has cemented his status as a highly sought-after educator and leader, helping professionals refine their craft, expand their businesses, and achieve enduring success.