Edward Robinson III: Graduating in Style

Snip-snip, hooray! Class of 2025 Mount Vernon High School graduate Edward Robinson III recently earned his New York State barbering license, the first Career and Technical Education (CTE) barbering student to achieve this momentous milestone. 

“Eddie’s groundbreaking achievement is a testament to both his dedication and the careful planning behind our CTE barbering program,” CTE director Brian Simmons wrote. “With NYSED approval and a strong focus on real-world success, this program is already changing lives — Eddie will always be remembered as a pioneer with many more to follow in his footsteps!”

Prior to sitting for the barbering exam, Edward had to complete 500 hours of training in addition to passing three years of CTE barbering courses. He was able to complete all his hours within his classes, which he started taking in his sophomore year. Barbering students like Edward would often cut elementary students' hair, as well as other members of the community, such as veterans and senior citizens.

“Edward was an outstanding student,” barbering teacher Ricardo Borland wrote. “His classwork was always stellar, and his barbering skills were amazing. I had the pleasure of watching him grow as a student and a barber. He traveled with us to over 10 elementary schools for years, and he even had his own clients in school. Edward took barbering seriously and I am proud of him and excited about his future.”

For the exam, Edward was required to perform different techniques on a mannequin, as well as take a test online. Leading up to the exam, Edward’s teacher, Mr. Boreland, gave him guidance and reassurance about the test, even meeting with him one day over the summer to review what would be on the exam.

“He reviewed the whole test with me and made sure he told me all the things they were looking for, like all the minor details,” Edward said. “So, I wouldn't mess it up.”

Edward plans to utilize his license by cutting his own, as well as his family and friends' hair. He also plans to promote his services to others through social media. Edward credits the CTE program for teaching him everything he knows about barbering and building confidence in his craft.

“They (CTE program) taught me everything I know that would be on the test, and they prepared me to take the test,” Edward said. "They helped boost my skills so I could actually give haircuts on my own without any assistance.”

He said he plans to attend trade school for electrical work – but even though he is not pursuing a career in barbering, he encourages other students to enroll in CTE programs, as he has learned a lot of life lessons through the barbering program.

“I feel like it's a program everybody should get into because the teachers will make sure that you know what you need to do, they'll make sure that you're straight and you can take the test,” Edward said. “They’ll also teach you other life skills here.”