Johnson is licensed to barber

She?s been there just over two months. The walls and floors are still blue, and her father is still donning his blue smock every day.

Margaret Johnson, Cynthiana?s newest barber, isn?t ready to go pink for her father Woody?s Barber Shop, but admits a neutral yellow would be nice.

Johnson, 43, grew up around the barber shop and so it seemed the right fit for her to follow her father?s path once her son moved away from home.

About a year ago, Johnson decided it was time to pursue a barbering career. She enrolled at Bailey?s Barber College in Lexington for a 10-month course to become licensed.

?I?ve always wanted to cut hair,? Johnson said, noting that she has worked several jobs while raising her family. Now, that son Andy is grown, she has more time to establish her position in a career dominated by men.

Johnson laughed while she talked about men coming into the shop for their haircuts and realizing that she is barbering. She said they?ll look at the wall or one of Woody?s many calendars to avoid eye contact with her.

?I say ?If you don?t want me to cut your hair, you?re going to have to tell me,?? she said. ?I don?t let them off easy.?

?This is probably a man?s profession,? Johnson said. ?It just goes to show you can do whatever you set your mind to.?

If a customer comes in the shop and both chairs are empty, Johnson said they?ll head straight for Woody?s familiar chair.

She said there are still a few skeptics, but they are coming around to the idea of a woman wielding the scissors.

Johnson has given thought to adding women?s haircuts to her offering. However, anything more than a short clip, will require additional training.

Johnson will continue as an apprentice for nine months then return to school for her master?s exam.

Johnson is at the shop the same hours as her father, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.