Arizona Esthetics Institute Case Study | Christie Stephenson Saavedra

The Challenge

At-risk youth in Arizona lacked accessible pathways to stable careers. Traditional academic settings often failed them, but vocational opportunities were limited and disconnected from real employment outcomes.

No local esthetics training programs
At-risk youth falling through educational cracks
Gap between education and employment
Need for hands-on, practical learning

The Solution

I co-founded Arizona Esthetics Institute, designing and launching a complete vocational training program from the ground up:

State-approved curriculum meeting Arizona licensing requirements
School district partnerships for at-risk student referrals
Hands-on training model balancing theory and practice
Career pathway from enrollment to licensure to employment

My Role

Designed state-approved esthetics curriculum
Developed lesson plans, assessments, and instructional materials
Negotiated partnerships with local school districts
Managed student recruitment and enrolled initial classes
Oversaw facility build-out, budgeting, and vendor management
Ensured compliance with state licensing requirements

Curriculum Design Approach

Competency-based: clear skills progression
State-aligned: met all licensing requirements
Hands-on focus: learn by doing, not just reading
Industry-connected: real salon/spa practices
Supportive structure: designed for learners who struggled elsewhere

📅 Project Timeline

Phase 1 Curriculum Development
& State Approval

Phase 2 Facility Build-out
& Vendor Setup

Phase 3 District Partnerships
& Recruitment

Phase 4 Initial Classes
Enrolled & Launched

🎯 Mission-Driven Design

This wasn't just curriculum development, it was creating opportunity for young people who had been told they couldn't succeed. Every design decision was filtered through the question: "Will this help a struggling student gain confidence and skills?"

Skills Demonstrated

Curriculum Development Instructional Design State Compliance Partnership Development Program Management Facility Planning Budget Management Student Recruitment Vocational Training At-Risk Youth Education

Key Takeaways

This experience taught me that instructional design isn't just about content, it's about understanding your learners, their barriers, and what they need to succeed. The most beautiful curriculum means nothing if students don't feel welcome, capable, and supported. This human-centered philosophy has shaped every training program I've designed since.