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Rows of red barber chairs on the academy floor

About the academy

Two Sisters. One Vision.

The Master Academy of Barbering opened on January 5, 2015, founded by sisters Zuri Carroll and Bianca Gilmore, who share a deep passion for the barber industry.

Zuri Carroll, co-founder of the Master Academy of Barbering
Zuri CarrollCo-Founder
Bianca Gilmore, co-founder of the Master Academy of Barbering
Bianca GilmoreCo-Founder

Our history

From a Vision to Knoxville's Barber Academy

What started as two sisters' vision for success in the barbering industry has become our life's passion: giving students an equal path to success.

We want to give our students valuable knowledge and the professional skills needed to be successful. We pride ourselves on keeping up to date with the industry and sharing all the expertise and insight we gather with our students. Together, our students and our team share a dream rooted in a love for barbering and learning, and we're excited to see our barbers start their careers or even open their own barber shops.

If you're looking for a new and rewarding opportunity, this is the place for you.

Busy academy floor with students cutting and trimming clients' hair at every station

Our Objective

Train our students to become licensed Master Barbers, with the knowledge and skills to pass the Tennessee State Board exams with success so they can secure job placement.

Our Instructors

Our instructors bring real industry experience to every lesson, so students gain a true understanding of working in a professional shop and reach their full potential.

Beyond the Chair

We prepare graduates in the business skills and financial responsibility it takes to succeed, whether you join a shop, rent a booth or open your own.

Leadership

Meet the Founders

Zuri Carroll, co-founder and educator

Zuri Carroll

Co-Founder · Educator

Zuri brings a wealth of experience, passion and dedication to the classroom. A licensed professional since 2012, she has been a driving force in the beauty and grooming industry for over a decade. In 2015 she took her commitment to education to the next level by opening The Master Academy of Barbering, where she has helped countless students launch successful careers.

Her favorite part of teaching is witnessing transformation: watching students grow, refine their skills and gain the confidence that comes with mastering their craft. Her approach is hands-on, encouraging and rooted in real-world experience.

Bianca Gilmore, co-founder and admissions

Bianca Gilmore

Co-Founder · Admissions

Bianca is one of the smiling faces you'll see when you step into the academy. As co-owner alongside her sister Zuri and part of the admissions team, she brings heart, hospitality and a genuine love for people to everything she does.

Whether she's answering questions, guiding new students through enrollment or offering a word of encouragement, Bianca makes every person feel seen, supported and excited about their journey. When you meet Bianca, you're not just starting school. You're joining a community that cares.

Visit us

Student Barbershop Hours

Service Hours

Walk-ins welcome · Eastern Time

  • MondayClosed
  • Tuesday10:30am – 8:00pm
  • Wednesday10:30am – 3:30pm
  • Thursday10:30am – 8:00pm
  • Friday10:30am – 9:00pm
  • Saturday9:00am – 1:00pm
  • SundayClosed

Tour the Academy

See the floor, meet the instructors and ask every question you have. Call to schedule a visit.

(865) 315-7473
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