For learners entering the hair and beauty industry, developing technical skills is only part of the journey. Confidence, creativity, professionalism and the ability to adapt are just as important, which is why skills competitions can play such a valuable role in preparing the next generation of professionals.

This year, ISA Training Trainer Coach, Kim Williams, has been selected to judge the Nail Technology competition at Skills Competition Wales, giving her the opportunity to recognise emerging talent and help celebrate the skills of learners from across Wales.

Kim, who works closely with learners at ISA Training, says she was honoured to be invited to take on the role.

She said:

‘Having supported learners throughout my career and seen first-hand the impact these competitions can have, it’s a privilege to now be involved from the judging side.’

Skills Competition Wales brings together learners to showcase their vocational skills and challenge themselves against industry standards. The programme covers a wide range of disciplines and is designed to raise the profile of vocational skills and support the development of Wales’ future workforce.

The introduction of a dedicated Nail Technology competition is particularly relevant to the fast-moving beauty industry, where technical ability, creativity and attention to detail are essential.

While the quality of a competitor’s finished work will naturally be important, Kim says judging will involve much more than simply looking at the end result.

‘Technical ability is, of course, important, but I’ll also be looking for confidence, professionalism, creativity and how competitors approach challenges.’

For Kim, qualities such as adaptability, critical thinking, attention to detail and time management can be just as important as technical skill.

These are also qualities that employers look for in the salon environment. A successful nail technician needs to be able to work professionally with clients, manage their time, respond to challenges and consistently deliver high-quality work all while working in a fast-paced environment.

At ISA Training, we believe that learning should prepare people for the realities of their chosen industry, not simply help them achieve a qualification.

Kim sees skills competitions as an important part of that development.

‘Competitions like Skills Competition Wales are incredibly valuable. They encourage learners to step outside their comfort zones, challenge themselves and develop skills that go far beyond their qualification.’

Taking part can help learners develop resilience and confidence while giving them an opportunity to benchmark their skills against other people working towards careers in the industry.

For learners who may already be building their careers through an apprenticeship, these experiences can provide another way to challenge themselves and discover what they are capable of.

Kim has seen how competitions can help learners recognise strengths they may not have realised they had, while also creating opportunities for employment, progression and networking.

The new Nail Technology competition also comes at a time when technology and innovation are transforming the wider hair and beauty sector.

From advanced treatment technology and digital booking systems to social media marketing and increasingly personalised client experiences, technology is becoming an increasingly important part of working in the industry.

Kim believes it is essential that today’s learners are prepared to embrace these changes.

‘Technology is transforming every aspect of the hair and beauty industry,’ she said. ‘Embracing innovation helps future-proof careers while ensuring the industry continues to evolve safely and effectively.’

That focus on developing future-ready professionals aligns closely with what ISA Training aims to achieve through its hair, beauty, barbering and nail apprenticeship programmes: combining practical experience, industry knowledge and recognised learning to help learners build successful careers.

For anyone considering entering a future Skills Competition Wales event, Kim has one simple piece of advice:

‘Go for it,’ she said. ‘Don’t let self-doubt stop you from entering.’

Winning may be the ultimate goal for some competitors, but Kim believes the experience itself is where much of the value lies.

Preparing for a competition, receiving feedback, meeting other learners and having the opportunity to showcase your skills can all contribute to becoming a more confident professional.

‘Every competition is a chance to learn, grow and become a more confident professional, regardless of the outcome.’

As Kim prepares to take her place on the judging panel for the new Nail Technology competition, it’s an opportunity not only to celebrate the next generation of talent, but to recognise the skills, creativity and professionalism that will shape the future of Wales’ hair and beauty industry.

And for ISA Training, having one of its Trainer Coaches involved in Skills Competition Wales is another reflection of its commitment to supporting learners, championing vocational skills and helping the industry develop the professionals it needs for the future.

If you would like to find out more about our nail and beauty apprenticeships at ISA Training, click here.