Gonzalez has been committed to both Aveda and education since 2005. He is the creative director and co-owner of VIDA Salon in Denver, Colorado— voted one of Salon Today’s Top 200 fastest growing salons in America. As an educator, he thrives on empowering colorists to go beyond their limitations by focusing on all aspects of color; placement, formulation and the artistic side. His ability to encourage and motivate stylists comes from his experience behind the chair and his relatable teaching style.

His other credits include presenting his own segments onstage at Aveda Master Jams and Aveda Congress; he has also worked backstage at New York Fashion Week. Gonzalez’s love for color and beauty go hand in hand with his passion for art and fashion. His editorial hair color photography has been featured in multiple fashion and hair publications and has been a part of multiple award nominated collections.

Gonzalez has been recognized as top colorist by Colorist Magazine, Southwest Latino Hairdresser and Colorist of the Year, and has been nominated for North American Hairstyling Awards (NAHA) as Colorist of the Year.

“Having fun and being creative with my guests fuels me to learn more and educate myself further,” said Gonzalez. “My goal is to empower professionals to continue their education and reach for their goals. Sharing information helps me discover more about my career every day… and drives me to go beyond limitations and reach for success – that is what puts what you learn into motion.”

In his role, Gonzalez will provide the professional community in the Aveda North America network with annual color collections, and lead education classes in select Aveda salons providing stylists with a high-touch class to learn the new collection and techniques in person. In addition to creating color collections, Gonzalez will while lead and develop artistry and products for Aveda North America, which will be showcased at exclusive shows, events across the industry.