Meet your piercer

I was incredibly fortunate to learn under the guidance of Ericca Colton, a skilled and compassionate piercer who began her own journey under Brian Murphy. For about a year, I observed Ericca at work absorbing everything I could before transitioning into hands-on practice by piercing friends under her close supervision.

I maintain up-to-date First Aid and CPR certification through ProTraining, renewing every two years. As a member of the Association of Professional Piercers, this ongoing training is a requirement, and one I take seriously to ensure the safety and well-being of every client.

In alignment with APP membership requirements, I complete annual Bloodborne Pathogens training through ProTrainings. This certification helps ensure I maintain the highest standards of hygiene and safety in every aspect of my work.

My first year attending the APP Conference in Las Vegas was made possible through the Shannon Larratt Scholarship, generously awarded by Industrial Strength. I had the honor of volunteering alongside fellow Al D. Scholars, contributing to the organization and gaining valuable education through the Health and Safety Seminar.

Taught by Ryan Ouellette, this four-hour seminar explored multiple techniques for performing common piercings. The class focused on adaptability, offering insight into how different methods can be used effectively depending on anatomy and client needs.

I had the honor of attending the very first Comprehensive Piercing Seminar offered by Fakir Intensives, a truly transformative experience. This program brought together a group of passionate and skilled piercers from across the industry, each with unique insight and energy. It wasn’t just about technique; it was about connection, intention, and history. I walked away not only with a deeper understanding of piercing but with lasting memories and friendships. The time I spent there remains one of the most meaningful chapters in my professional journey.

This seminar focused on surface piercings and was taught by the incredibly knowledgeable Luis Garcia. Watching him perform multiple piercings using wound shaping techniques was both eye-opening and inspiring. It gave me a new perspective and expanded my approach to this specialized style of piercing.

This was my first year attending the Association of Professional Piercers Conference in Las Vegas as a member of the APP. I had the opportunity to volunteer with the organization by assisting with AV support throughout the event. I also attended 14 educational classes, gaining valuable insight and continuing to build on my knowledge of health, safety, and piercing techniques.

This was my first time attending Camp APP, the Association of Professional Piercers’ annual members retreat. I participated in 9 classes and workshops throughout the week and had the chance to connect with fellow piercers, build friendships, and share knowledge in a more relaxed and collaborative environment.

Taught by former APP President Jef Saunders, this seminar focused on advanced techniques such as freehand piercing and going fully disposable. It was a great opportunity to expand my technical skills and gain insight from someone who has played such a big role in pushing industry standards forward.

This seminar, led by industry expert Luis Garcia, focused on the anatomy, technique, and client communication involved in genital piercings. It provided valuable insight into safely and respectfully performing these intimate piercings with professionalism and precision.

This was my third time attending the Association of Professional Piercers Conference in Las Vegas. I continued my volunteer work with the organization and attended 14 educational classes, further expanding my knowledge and skills within the field.

This was my second time attending Camp APP, the APP’s annual members retreat. I participated in 9 classes and workshops throughout the week, and enjoyed great food and even better company in a supportive, educational environment.

This seminar focused on ear anatomy and how to work within its natural limitations. We explored how to approach multi-piercing ear projects with intention, and discussed which jewelry styles work best for curated looks. Luis also demonstrated custom bending techniques to tailor jewelry for unique anatomies.

This seminar offered an in-depth look at needle bevel theory and how it applies to piercing technique. Ryan explained how understanding the needle’s bevel can improve precision and minimize trauma. We also had the opportunity to apply these concepts practically by piercing foam boards to observe bevel control in action.

This year marked a milestone in my professional journey as I facilitated my first class, teaching Social Media Management to fellow industry professionals. In addition to volunteering for the APP, I also attended 13 classes, continuing my commitment to ongoing education and growth within the piercing community.

This was my third time attending Camp APP, and it was an incredible experience as always. I participated in 9 workshops, connected with other passionate piercers, and came away with new knowledge and inspiration to bring back to the studio.

In this seminar, Luis Garcia covered techniques for performing various piercings both freehand and with the use of tools. It was an informative session that reinforced versatility and precision in my approach to different piercings.

This was my second year facilitating a class, and it went great! I also volunteered with the AV department and attended 14 classes, continuing my commitment to education and community involvement within the industry.

This unique seminar offered the chance to experience three of Ryan’s popular APP Conference classes back-to-back in one immersive session. It was a deep dive into piercing theory, technique, and innovation all delivered with Ryan’s signature style and insight.

This was my fourth year attending Camp APP. I participated in 10 classes and workshops, continuing to grow both professionally and personally alongside an incredible community of peers.

This seminar explored ear anatomy and the technical considerations that come into play when performing multiple piercings. Cale broke down strategies for safe, aesthetic placement when doing doubles, triples, and beyond—helping piercers create balanced and well-curated ear projects.

This seminar focused on the use of larger gauge jewelry (primarily in genital piercings) and how it can improve both the structural integrity and healing of certain placements. Luis shared valuable insights into when and why thicker jewelry may be a better choice than standard sizes.

This was my fifth time attending Camp APP. I participated in nine classes and workshops, and also took time to unwind and relax by the lake.  Making it a perfect blend of learning and self-care.

My sixth time attending Camp APP was a little different.  This year was more about taking a break and recharging. I took seven classes, but the focus was on rest, connection, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.