Aveda’s Traci Sakosits on Education, Evolution and the Future of the Industry.

With more than three decades of experience shaping and inspiring the next generation of hair professionals, Traci Sakosits has built a career defined by precision, discipline and a deep commitment to education.

As Vice President of Education & Creative Direction at Aveda Arts & Sciences Institutes, and former North American Creative Director for Vidal Sassoon, Traci has led global education, seminars, editorial work and collections alongside some of the industry’s most respected teams worldwide.

During her recent visit to Australia with Aveda, TJM spoke with Traci about the importance of cutting fundamentals, the evolving role of education in the modern global landscape and the future of professional hairdressing.

TJM: You’ve worked across education, creative direction and salons. What sets a great hairdresser apart?

TS: Passion, education and drive.

A great hairdresser loves people and stays curious. Today, more than ever, an entrepreneurial spirit also matters.

TJM: Trends come and go. Why do strong cutting fundamentals still matter?

TS: A strong technical foundation sets your personal standard and builds confidence.

It also lends itself to creativity. Understanding the fundamentals gives you control and opens endless possibilities with hair.

In the salon, strong technique enables quick decisions, better time management and customised looks for every guest.

TJM: What global trends should Australian hairdressers be watching?

TS: Australian hairdressers are deeply dedicated to the craft, hold high standards and seem to truly enjoy what they do.

Well-cut hair, paired with thoughtful colour and styling, is always on trend.

TJM: What’s one cutting technique you hope stylists take straight back to the salon?

TS: Precision cutting ideas and thoughtful sectioning patterns that are inspiring, salon-ready and easy to share with guests and fellow hairdressers.

It’s all in the details.

TJM: In an era of online learning, why does live education still matter?

TS: Live education matters more than ever.

It connects you with your community and mentors, surrounds you with people willing to share and helps you refine your craft in ways online learning cannot fully replicate.

Regular face-to-face connection is key to our success.

I’ve built my career helping others develop their cutting skills. Beyond technique and control, the greatest growth happens when I can watch someone cut and guide them through their process.

There is a sense of touch that makes every artist different, and seeing someone work with their hands in hair can elevate them as an individual.

Online learning does play a supporting role alongside in-person learning. At Aveda Arts, we’ve found that the most engaging education happens when both are part of the learning process.

TJM: How can education help salons attract, retain and grow great talent?

TS: Ongoing education is one of the greatest benefits a salon can offer its team.

Education and team training build camaraderie, confidence, loyalty and, most importantly, consistency across a salon team or brand.

TJM: How do Aveda’s values shape the way you develop education and new products?

TS: Education should be as sustainable as the Aveda brand and the products it creates.

It should be thoughtful about the world around us, always accessible and focused not only on technical skill but on the entire guest experience.

An educational experience should also feel like part of one’s personal wellness.

TJM: What will have the biggest impact on professional cutting over the next few years?

TS: The skill level of today’s educators will have a major impact on professional haircutting. One of my focuses is educator training.

In my role as Vice President of Education for Aveda Arts & Sciences Institutes, I also believe the future hairdressers and their enthusiasm for haircutting will shape the profession.

I see it firsthand in our student body, and the future looks bright.

Technology can also help us stay more organised, efficient and focused with our time. It helps us connect, learn and support creativity.

TJM: What’s the one message you hope every hairdresser leaves with today?

TS: Hairdressing is a wonderful career path.

It is social, intelligent, creative and can become anything you want it to be.

Follow @avedaproaus and @tracisak_hair.