PCC cosmetology graduate embraces new role as program director
Sixteen years after graduating from the program, Andrea Valencia is guiding another generation through PCC’s cosmetology department as its new leader.
Though her job-title change is recent, students and other instructors have an established comfort level with Valencia. After several years working in another city, she returned to Pueblo and, after an invitation to be a guest speaker for a cosmetology class, she ended up becoming a part-time instructor. Eventually, she transitioned to a full-time faculty role.
“PCC gave me support, a career, skills and the confidence to take what I was passionate about and turn it into what it is now,” she said.
Valencia oversees all areas of the department – cosmetology, barbering, hairstylist, esthetician and nail technician.
“It helps being a PCC graduate because I already speak the language,” she said. “I know the advising process and what resources are available for students.”
Noting that all programs were filled for the fall semester and had waiting lists before the spring 2026 semester ended, Valencia intends to add instructors to accommodate student demand while strengthening an already sturdy foundation. She’s actively looking for other professionals – particularly PCC alumni – who want to contribute.
“It’s an opportunity to pass on knowledge you wish you’d had or have gained,” she said. “You get to shape the culture of the program.”
She envisions a program culture that provides each student the necessary guidance and the freedom to begin shaping their own style.
“We want them to get answers, not barriers,” she said. “I want this to be a supportive environment, to create that trust with students so they don’t even realize you’re letting go and they’re doing it themselves.”
Valencia believes cosmetology remains a popular career choice for multiple reasons. Graduates can utilize their creativity and skills and build a successful career through an independent work schedule. The emotional payoff comes through connections with the people they serve.
“It’s the feeling you get when you spin the chair or pass the mirror to a client and say, ‘What do you think of your new look?’ We did our part to make someone else’s day brighter,” she said.
