I oppose the idea of apprenticeship training as an avenue to become a licensed esthetician in the state of Virginia. I believe that it would discredit the formal schooling that is currently required.  There is much more than apprenticing or learning tricks of the trade when it comes to becoming a professional esthetician and then later to become a master esthetician. How could the proper information be put out if it's not regulated?  Who could then confirm the information to be accurate? How could it be confirmed that the apprentice actually worked the hours they document and the same goes for their hands on time. Everything that I have learned as a professional esthetician in a formal school setting was essential to the safety of my clients. There are many basic things that  are taught in school about sanitation, the functions of the skin and the chemistry of the products in relationship to the skin, anatomy,  recognizing and referring medical conditions, and the regulations and the scope of practice of an esthetician...just to name a few. If we take away the formal training and schooling we are taking a step backwards in the esthetic field and we will watch this profession decline in quality and also in the safety of the client. Before become licensed myself I had to undergo many written and practical tests to prove I knew what I was doing and how to do it safely and in a sanitaylry manner. It was only then that I could understand and learn the Requirements for state board. In order to maintain the integrity of our field and the health and safety of our client's skin we need to ensure all individuals lookin. To become estheticians are properly educated.