As high school seniors look ahead to next fall, more are choosing work over college, reflecting a national trend among Generation Z. For Ryan Matthews, his dream to become a barber started in childhood. As he finishes high school, Matthews’ experience at New Era Barbershop is launching him straight into a full-time career.
“I love making people feel good. So, I get to make people feel good every day and do what I love,” Matthews said.
Learning from mentors Jayson Richardson and “Petey Rock the Barber,” Ryan picked up not just the craft, but lessons in money management, scheduling and building client relationships.
Richardson, who joined the shop in 2022, appreciates seeing Matthews grow.
“I love seeing somebody go from the ground right to the top. We just saw a vision, wanted to build an empire,” he said.
Matthews’ decision to bypass college is part of a larger shift. A recent Gallup survey found just 74% of Gen Z teens expect to attend college, 11 percentage points lower than their millennial predecessors.
For Matthews, his family’s support has made all the difference.
“Let your child explore what they have interest in, because you never know what could be their lifelong career,” said Melissa Matthews, Ryan’s mother.
Barbering is projected to grow 5% over the next decade, faster than the average for all occupations. With the cost of college rising and job security becoming uncertain in many fields, trades like barbering offer paths to success and independence for young people across the country.
Looking ahead, Ryan Matthews plans to own his own shop, ideally with his friend Jay.
“We kind of started this whole thing. That would be nice,” Ryan Matthews said.