What if a $10 haircut could change someone’s life? That’s the question Empire Barber School is answering every day in Mesa, AZ. Owner Jesse Rae isn’t just training barbers—he’s building confident professionals ready to thrive in the real world. And the best part? You can be a part of it.
Jesse Rae, founder of Empire Barber School, didn’t start out in the grooming world. While studying computer science at Northern Arizona University, he discovered a passion for cutting hair by offering free trims to fellow students. That passion turned into purpose when he took his clippers to the streets, giving haircuts to the homeless. Though not yet licensed at the time, the experience earned him local attention and inspired him to become a professional barber.
Determined to learn from the best, Jesse tracked down a master barber in Flagstaff who became his mentor. After graduating and gaining experience in shops across the Valley, Jesse began posting tutorial videos that caught the attention of a Utah barber college. They brought him on as Barber Director—where he learned the ropes of teaching and developed a vision for something more.
“They teach you how to cut hair, but not how to succeed,” Jesse said. That’s when the idea for Empire Barber School was born—a place where students learn not only precision cuts but also customer service, self-promotion, and how to turn their skills into a career.
Located in Mesa, Empire Barber School offers a state-licensed 1,200-hour program, broken into 250 hours of theory and 950 hours of hands-on training. But what truly sets Empire apart is the focus on real-world success. Jesse coaches students on how to market themselves, build lasting client relationships, and even manage their finances.
“Cutting hair is the easy part. It’s building trust and connecting with clients that makes a great barber,” Jesse said. “We work on that every day.”
For the community, Empire is a win-win. Not only does it offer an affordable career path for aspiring barbers, it also provides the public with high-quality haircuts starting at just $10. There’s even a monthly membership option that allows unlimited cuts. Every haircut is supervised by Jesse to ensure client satisfaction.
“People are looking to save money these days. We offer a place where you can do that and walk out feeling great,” Jesse said. “And you’re helping our students learn with each visit.”
The journey hasn’t been without challenges. Jesse, who previously ran a marketing business, admits running a physical shop is a whole different game. He started in a small suite with a classroom tucked in the back. Today, Empire occupies two suites—one for education and one for the full-service barber shop.
Despite the rapid growth, Jesse still wears many hats: educator, business owner, and lead barber. He’s actively searching for another licensed instructor but says good ones are hard to find. Still, his passion drives him to keep pushing forward.
Looking ahead, Jesse envisions expanding across Arizona—especially into underserved areas—and opening affiliated barber shops where his graduates can work immediately after certification. “Barbering can be a great career if you’re willing to work hard and take pride in your craft,” he said.
And if you’re in the East Valley, there’s no better time to support this homegrown success story. Whether you’re looking for a fresh fade, a quick clean-up, or just want to save money on grooming, stop by Empire Barber School and experience the cut that’s changing the game.
Walk-ins welcome | $10 Haircuts | Unlimited Monthly Plans Available
📍 Empire Barber School – Mesa, AZ
✂️ Support students. Save money. Look sharp.
📲 Follow @EmpireBarberSchool on Instagram and Facebook for before-and-afters, student spotlights, and exclusive deals!
Tag your fresh cuts with #EmpireBarberMesa and join the community that’s redefining barbering in Arizona.
