About
Stephen Adams
Hair educator, business strategist, and creative leader with over 35 years of experience. Founder of Moxie Hair Salon, Beauty Certified Education Association, and Axcelr8 Academy.
The Bio
A career built on education.
Stephen Adams is a highly respected hair educator, business strategist, and creative leader with over 35 years of experience in the beauty and cosmetology industry. As the Founder and co-owner of Moxie Hair Salon—established in 1999—along with founding the Beauty Certified Education Association in 2012, and serving as the principal educator at Axcelr8 Academy since its inception in 2022, Stephen has established a remarkable reputation for elevating industry standards through his commitment to innovative education, strategic business development, and adept brand management.
His expertise encompasses not only hair cutting and coloring but also salon operations, positioning him as a trusted mentor to stylists and salon professionals across the nation.
"One of the greatest gifts in our industry is learning from people who don't just master their craft…they share it. Over the years, I've had the privilege of watching Stephen Adams create incredible work behind the chair, on stage, and in the classroom. His talent as a stylist and colorist is undeniable, but what has always impressed me most is his willingness to pour into others. Thank you, Stephen, for inspiring countless artists and helping make our industry better."
Stephen's illustrious career is defined by his unwavering dedication to education. He has worked as a national and international educator, collaborating with esteemed brands such as Aveda, Paul Mitchell, and Arrojo. It was during this vital stage in his career that he began to train stylists at various experience levels. Renowned for his remarkable creativity and precision, he has mastered the art of crafting exquisite hairstyles using a razor. His versatility allows him to excel in all areas, but his greatest strengths lie in hair cutting and color chemistry.
"Stephen is a Wizard; he can do everything—Amazing Cuts, Beautiful Colors, and he is also proficient in styling hair."
As a Coach, Mentor, Creative, and Education Director, Stephen has played a pivotal role in restructuring educational programs for several salons. He has also helped develop strategic recruiting initiatives while directly recruiting and training new stylists. Moreover, he has led dynamic marketing campaigns and partnered with national educators to deliver cutting-edge training sessions.
Stephen's unwavering dedication to inspiring creativity and facilitating growth within the beauty industry has cemented his status as a highly sought-after educator and leader—helping professionals refine their craft, expand their businesses, and achieve enduring success.
Our Philosophy
Why Axcelr8 Education Is Superior
At Axcelr8 Academy, education isn't about memorizing steps—it's about mastering systems. We believe every stylist deserves a clear, repeatable way to create their best work, every single day.
Our courses are built on one guiding principle: understanding before imitation. Whether it's the structure of a haircut, the chemistry of haircolor, or the science of curl pattern, every Axcelr8 program is designed to bridge art and logic—giving stylists the 'why' behind the 'how.'
Each class is taught through our proprietary Axcelr8 System, a modern approach that blends theory, mechanics, and creativity into a single, practical framework. Stylists learn to see beyond trends—to read shape, texture, color, and fabric like designers, and to make intentional choices that deliver consistent, elevated results.
System-Based Learning
Every Axcelr8 class is built on structure and decision-making—not repetition or brand allegiance. Our system teaches stylists how to think, not just how to copy. We train problem solvers—professionals who can analyze any head of hair, any texture, any color challenge, and create solutions that work in real life.
The Bridge Between Art and Science
From geometry and movement to chemistry and color theory, Axcelr8 integrates the artistic with the technical. Stylists leave not only inspired, but fluent in the mechanics that drive results. This blend of precision and creativity forms the foundation of mastery.
Designed for Every Level
Our system adapts seamlessly to both new stylists building confidence and seasoned professionals refining their craft. Each class deepens discipline, speed, and intention—without ego, judgment, or filler.
Hands-On, Real-World Application
We believe the best education happens when knowledge meets practice. Every Axcelr8 class balances theory with immersive, hands-on execution, ensuring that students walk away ready to implement what they've learned on real clients immediately.
A Complete Learning Pathway
The Axcelr8 Academy offers a full continuum of technical education—from foundational systems to advanced mastery across cutting and color. Each program can stand alone or connect as part of a structured professional pathway, culminating in Axcelr8 Certification—a mark of true technical and professional excellence.
Built by Educators Who Work Behind the Chair
Every Axcelr8 class is developed by stylists, for stylists. Our educators actively work behind the chair, ensuring the education is current, relevant, and grounded in the daily realities of modern salons.
The Axcelr8 Experience
We don't teach trends. We teach timeless systems. We don't lecture. We coach. We don't inspire for a day. We transform careers.
The Axcelr8 Learning Pathway
A full continuum of technical education—from foundational systems to advanced mastery across cutting and color.
Blueprint
A System for Haircutting Foundations
Edgework
A System for Razor Cutting
Axis
A System for Cutting Decisions
Helix
A System for Curls, Coils & Waves
Catalyst
A System for Haircolor Chemistry & Formulation
Prism
A System for Modern Dimension
We don't teach trends. We teach timeless systems.
We don't lecture. We coach.
We don't inspire for a day. We transform careers.