Get to Know Our Team

"Start your career as a nail tech professional with the most caring team in the industry."

Brian McKew "The Big Boss"

CEO & Owner

“I liked it so much, I bought it twice,” Brian will say often, in describing the family business of 19 years. He's the guy who oversees the big picture. He's the master strategist, and the visionary behind the Academy. Brian leans on his Master's degree in Business, and his 40 years of experience, to mentor enthusiastic students in the pursuit of their own businesses. “It's fun to help a young person, or someone seeking a second career. To be a part of that process is exciting and rewarding.” If you have a goal, and about “two hours,” Brian will cut through the roadblocks and help you map out a plan for success.

Brian is on site almost daily and enjoys being a resource. Conversations about business with Brian will go deep as he'll work with you on all possibilities. “My hope is that we can give students a place to learn, grow and explore their strengths. There's multiple layers, personalities and potential all wrapped up here at the Academy, and I get to see it all.” Come visit us, and see what doors we can help open for you.

Anabel Ross "The Polish Princess"

VP of Sales

If you're searching for any color polish, or nail product, Anabel is your gal. You can't miss her! This 5 ft. dynamo has a big personality. And, she shows it off with her spunky hair color, which she'll change up in a flash. Her 19 years of sales and retail experience makes her the perfect fit, at the Academy and neighboring Manicure Mart, with customers and students alike.

Never sitting still, and bouncing between the school and supply company, Anabel hustles with placing orders, product fulfillment, organization, inventory, and everything needed to keep the shops running. But she's never too busy for students. “I love to hear their story, why they started doing nails, what their plans are, and then watching them blossom.” She'll help you save money on purchases, set up your nail kits, and will advise you on exactly what you need to start your business, without breaking the bank. So, the next time you're here, take a stroll down the isles of Manicure Mart and go see our “Princess of Polish.”

Nisareli Razo "Creative Artist"

Lead Instructor

Stay tuned for a bio update!

Our Mission

The primary goal of the school is to offer the highest level of quality education in the nail industry to our students. This is accomplished through our licensed instructors who will provide training techniques involving the latest nail products, skills and procedures available while incorporating hands on clinical training in the school's salon.

In addition to this training, our students are educated in the concept of total customer satisfaction, acquiring the necessary skills preparing our students for a career in Nail Technology while equipping them with the knowledge to pass the Arizona State Board exams.

Company History

Academy of Nail Technology teaches from the first edition theory and workbooks of Pivot Point International, a Resource of Your Nail Care Career. All instructors are experienced nail technicians licensed with the State of Arizona. They are required to create lesson plans that enhance all theory lessons they teach.

Academy of Nail Technology has an excellent reputation in the community and among Arizona salons. Due to this fact, Academy of Nail Technology provides a great deal of services, which allows our students to experience all facets of nail technology. Our graduates are confident when they complete the course, which encourages them to work in a professional and proficient salon.

Academy is a private school and not accredited by a national accrediting association.

The Academy of Nail Technology state licensing is registered and up todate on all policies set forth by Arizona State Board of Cosmetology. The Academy also networks with a variety of salons and industry businesses throughout the valley inviting them as guest speakers to the training center, many offering career opportunities for the Academy's upcoming graduates.

Training facility consists of 3,000 square feet. It consists of a theory room, clinic floor, pedicure area, break room with refrigerator and a microwave. We also provide two restrooms, one rest room meets ADA requirements. In addition, we have two offices and a storage area.

Student lockers are provided located in our dispensary area.
Clinic floor accommodates 18 professional workstations.
Student workstation consists of a manicure table, student and client chair similar to the salon environment.
Classroom used for theory and demonstrations consists of six banquet style tables and 18 chairs. Extra chairs are available to accommodate both sides of the table.
Demonstration table is located in the front of the classroom with camera and screen for easy viewing of demonstrations or PowerPoint presentations.
Pedicure area is equipped with enough seating for 14 client pedicure services. Twelve pedicure carts and pedicure baths are available for student use.
The training center is a non-smoking establishment located in central Phoenix with plenty of parking close by for students.

Academy of Nail Technology