Description

Explore the latest trends and skills in runway styling with UNITE’s Creative Director, Gary Baker. This intensive training will prepare you with the knowledge and creative techniques that you need to join the team backstage. All attendees who take this course will be invited to be a part of the UNITE Pro Team at New York Fashion Week. The exclusive experience is not only a noteworthy portfolio builder, but it will give you the opportunity to network with stylists, models and designers, work on all hair types in a high-pressure environment, have your work potentially featured in top-tier media placements, and learn the need-to-know trends six months before they go mainstream.
*Approx UNITE NYFW Working Dates (If working FULL week):
February 12-17, 2026
*Approx Dates (If working HALF Week): February 14-17, 2026
We are offering two locations for this class: Carlsbad, CA and New York, NY. Either class will make you eligible for NYFW. You are currently on the page to purchase your ticket for the Carlsbad class.

February 1 + 2, 2026

Class Location: UNITE Headquarters

2870 Whiptail Loop East

Carlsbad, CA 92010

10am-4pm (each day)

Duration: 2 Days


What Is Runway Ready?


  • Rewards

    When you join the UNITE Runway Ready Experience, you’ll unlock exclusive rewards as you level up—from earning backstage certification and UNITE tv access to discounted tickets, product gifts, and special recognition as a Backstage Artist at New York Fashion Week.

    Additional Perks
    - Go from the classroom to backstage
    - Get out of your comfort zone and get comfortable working on ALL hair types
    - Become an international hairdresser working at the iconic Fashion Week
    - Get your work featured in some of the largest fashion magazines in the world such as American Salon, Us, and Elle Magazine.
    - Grow and catapult your career at this once in a lifetime opportunity.

  • Tiers

    Tier 1: Backstage Access (1st Season)
    • Digital Certification
    • 3 Months of UNITE tv
    • Eligible for joining the UNITE Runway Ready Team this season
    • 25% off UNITE ProSystem 5.5 Shears
    • UNITE 3 Product Kit
    Tier 2: Backstage Team (2-4 Seasons)
    • Digital Certification
    • 1 Year of UNITE tv
    • 30% Off Full Price Bootcamp Ticket
    • Eligible for joining the UNITE Runway Ready Team this season
    • 25% off UNITE ProSystem 5.5 Shears
    • UNITE 5 Product Kit
    Tier 3: Backstage Artist (5+ Seasons)
    • Digital Certification
    • Full Access to UNITE tv
    • 50% Off Full Price Bootcamp Ticket (Limited availability)
    • Eligible for joining the UNITE Runway Ready Team this season
    • Instagram Feature + Tag on @unite_hairtv
    • UNITE Artist Tool Bag
    • 25% off UNITE ProSystem 5.5 Shears
    • UNITE 5 Product Kit

Instructor

Gary Baker

Creative Director

Londonite Gary Baker is an award-winning, internationally recognized session stylist, educator, and platform artist. His impressive career spans more than three decades, during which he has established himself technically and creatively in the art of hair on set, backstage, and behind the chair working with A-list celebrity clientele such as the royal family. He applies his experience and knowledge of the industry to his role as Creative Director for UNITE Hair. Gary can be found in the studio/academy sharing his inspiring and innovative techniques, working on brand campaigns and traveling the world creating show-stopping looks at Fashion Week.