BY KRISTINE HUFFMAN

Throughout 2023 , Pulse will feature interviews with experienced practitioners whose insights about spa specialties will help facility leaders to recruit , engage and retain staff members .

Spa careers offer opportunities to contribute cross-platform and to advance in leadership .

KRISTINE HUFFMAN for Pulse : You started out in the industry as a nail technician . How did you decide to take that as a pathway ? KERRI MIGNEAULT : When I graduated from high school , I wasn ’ t 100 percent sure what I wanted to do for college . I had a friend who was in cosmetology school , and I was her model for her state boards . That introduced me to that world . I didn ’ t want to go to school for hair , finger waves and perms . So , I opted to go to school for nails .

Pulse : How did your career evolve from there ? KM : When I was in school , my instructor was adamant about having goals . He always said if you don ’ t have goals , you ’ re never going to move forward . I got the amazing opportunity to work at the Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa & Salon . There , I decided that I was going to take every opportunity that came my way . My answer was always Yes ! Next , I was offered an opportunity to work in Miami at The Noble House as part of the opening team .

I learned very quickly how to apply for reciprocity for my license . That is something that a lot of people new to the industry don ’ t necessarily understand is an option for them if they ’ re looking to relocate . In Miami , I also took

50 PULSE n MAY / JUNE 2023