We were lucky to catch up with Jennifer Rosauer Meghan Hinojosa recently and have shared our conversation below.

Jennifer Rosauer, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?

We are Jennifer Rosauer and Meghan Hinojosa, proud founders of Premier Academy of Cosmetology and Esthetics (PACE). Our institution offers post-secondary programs for students pursuing careers in cosmetology, esthetics, nail technology, instructor training, and other disciplines within the beauty and wellness industry.

For us, the industry is about opportunity and helping people build meaningful careers. After more than two decades mentoring and teaching in higher education, we had the privilege of seeing firsthand how the right training and guidance can transform a student’s future.

During those years, we recognized a growing need within cosmetology and esthetics education for programs that provide students with the advanced training and real-world experience required to thrive in today’s evolving industry. We saw an opportunity to create a program that combined high-quality education, hands-on learning, and a supportive environment where students could grow both professionally and personally.

That realization sparked the idea for PACE. Our goal was to build a program that not only prepares students for state licensing exams but also equips them with the skills, confidence, and professional mindset needed for long-term success in the field. Our mission is to provide students with a strong foundation in both theory and advanced practical application while helping elevate the standards of education within the beauty industry.

At PACE, we emphasize small class sizes and hands-on training so students receive personalized attention and mentorship throughout their education. We have built a faculty team of industry experts, many of whom are also successful business owners. Their real-world insight helps students understand both the technical and business sides of the profession.

What inspires us most is watching students discover their potential and step confidently into their careers. PACE was created to empower the next generation of industry professionals, and we are passionate about helping our students turn their creativity and passion into fulfilling, successful futures.

Jennifer Rosauer, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Over the years, our professional relationship has grown into a genuine friendship built on deep respect, shared values, and a common vision for the future of the industry. We feel incredibly fortunate to work alongside one another and to lead an institution that reflects the standards, integrity, and passion we both believe in.

We are deeply passionate about the cosmetology field and helping students build meaningful careers in an industry we love. We prioritize small class sizes and extensive hands-on learning so that every student receives personalized attention and mentorship from our licensed and experienced faculty.

We are proud to maintain a 100% state exam pass rate, while offering an advanced and structured curriculum designed to prepare students for clear and successful career pathways. Our students train in state-of-the-art facilities using up-to-date equipment and comprehensive kits that mirror professional environments, helping them gain the practical skills and confidence needed to enter the industry.

Just as important as technical training, we have cultivated a supportive, close-knit campus culture where students feel encouraged and empowered throughout their education. Through strong relationships with local employers and industry professionals, we also help connect our students with real opportunities as they begin their careers.

Our goal is not only to educate, but to inspire and support the next generation of professionals as they build successful and fulfilling futures in the industry.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

Hands down, our former students have been our greatest ambassadors. When they share their experiences and encourage others to explore our programs, it carries a level of authenticity that no advertisement ever could. Their success stories reflect their dedication and hard work, and we are proud to have played even a small part in their journey.

Beyond that, it speaks to something bigger in our industry. When graduates lift up their education and share how it helped them grow, they help raise the standard for the profession. Their voices inspire the next generation of students, and their achievements remind us why we do this work.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Our reputation has been built over time through experience, consistency, and a commitment to honesty and integrity. From day one, these values have guided how we run PACE and how we support our graduates as they enter the industry.

Our culture is centered on motivating and empowering students to take ownership of their futures. We encourage them to develop resilience, independence, and an entrepreneurial mindset; skills that help them build lasting careers. At the same time, we emphasize community, collaboration, and creating a positive, inclusive environment where everyone feels they belong.

By consistently living these values, we have earned the trust of students, graduates, and the broader industry. That trust is more than a reputation; it’s the foundation of everything we do and the reason our students and alumni feel confident recommending PACE to others.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://pace-life.org
• Instagram: @pacepremieracademy
• Facebook: Premier Academy of Cosmetology and Esthetics- PACE

Image Credits

Sarah Ireland- Sarah Ireland Photography