Because of the hands-on training and real-world experiences he received during his education in Bergen County Technical School District’s Cosmetology program, Avelino Cachez, Class of 2020, was able to enter the cosmetology field while still in high school, giving him an early start compared to many of his peers. Today, he works in the cosmetology field at J&Co Hair, where he continues to grow professionally while contributing to the broader beauty industry.
A Lodi native, Cachez enrolled in Bergen Tech’s Cosmetology program, where hands-on experience helped confirm his interest in pursuing cosmetology as a career. While still in high school, he participated in a work-study placement at J&Co Hair, a local salon where he has worked continuously from high school through college and graduate school. The salon supported his academic journey by accommodating his school schedule, allowing him to work full time while pursuing higher education. That early exposure to professional environments, client interactions and industry expectations laid the foundation for his continued success.
“The education I received at Bergen Tech set me up for success in so many ways,” Cachez said. “I was able to start my career at a young age and gain real experience while still in high school.”
That experience opened doors to advanced professional development opportunities, including training at internationally recognized institutions such as the Vidal Sassoon Academies in New York and London, as well as education through industry-leading brands, including Wella and DevaCurl. Cachez’s relationship with Wella began through professional classes sponsored by J&Co Hair and continued to grow as he became a familiar presence within the organization.
After completing multiple Wella training programs, Cachez successfully applied for and earned a position as a Wella brand educator following a competitive interview and audition process.
In this role, he teaches haircutting and coloring classes throughout New Jersey as an independent contractor, allowing him to establish his own education-based business while continuing his salon work at J&Co Hair.
In addition to building his cosmetology career, Cachez pursued higher education, earning both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in business management at Felician University. He credits the flexibility and mentorship provided by J&Co Hair for enabling him to balance full-time work and full-time education without sacrificing professional growth.
Cachez is an example of a career and technical education student who made the most of a career-focused high school experience to build the skills and make employer connections needed to jumpstart a successful future.
“Being able to attend cosmetology school during high school allowed me to graduate college alongside my peers, but with real-world experience already behind me,” Cachez said.
Today, Cachez remains closely connected to Bergen Tech and returns each year to share his experiences with current students. He views mentorship and giving back as an important part of his professional journey.
“Bergen Tech gave me opportunities I did not even know were possible,” he said. “I come back every year to help students see what is achievable when you start early and take full advantage of the program.”
