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North Carolina A&T Alum Develops Automated Braiding Device to Boost Stylist Incomes

North Carolina A&T Alum Develops Automated Braiding Device to Boost Stylist Incomes
Posted By: Will Moss on January 30, 2026

North Carolina A&T State University alum Chisom Okwor has created an innovative automated handheld braiding device aimed at doubling the income for professional hairstylists. Okwor, a graduate of the university's engineering program, developed the device with the goal of streamlining the time-consuming braiding process and increasing productivity for hair salons and independent stylists.

The device, which Okwor has dubbed the "Braid Boss", features a motorized system that automates the manual motion of braiding hair. By reducing the physical effort required, the Braid Boss allows stylists to braid hair up to four times faster than traditional methods. This increased efficiency translates to higher earning potential for hair professionals, who can now complete more styles in the same amount of time.

Key Takeaway: The Braid Boss device has the potential to significantly boost incomes for HBCU-educated hairstylists and salon owners, empowering them to grow their businesses and create more opportunities within the Black community.

"As an HBCU graduate, I understand the importance of developing innovative solutions that create economic empowerment for our community," said Okwor.



"The Braid Boss is my way of using technology to support the hard-working stylists who are the backbone of the Black hair care industry."

North Carolina A&T State University, Okwor's alma mater, is the largest public historically black college or university (HBCU) in the country. The university's engineering program has a strong track record of producing talented innovators like Okwor, who are using their skills to solve real-world problems.

"I'm proud to see one of our HBCU graduates making such a meaningful impact in the hair care industry. Chisom's innovation has the potential to create new opportunities and economic mobility for stylists across the country."

HBCUConnect.com applauds Chisom Okwor's forward-thinking invention and the positive impact it can have on Black-owned hair businesses and professionals. The Braid Boss device represents the innovative spirit and entrepreneurial drive that are hallmarks of HBCU graduates. This story showcases how HBCU alumni are leveraging their education to develop impactful solutions that empower their communities.

Originally reported by Google News HBCU.


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