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In the early 1980s, Richard Hurter’s journey began in a seemingly unrelated field—working in a machine shop in Simi Valley, California. However, fate had other plans, leading him to work in a beauty supply store where he started stocking shelves and taking salon orders. This humble beginning marked the start of an illustrious career in the nail industry, a field where Richard would leave an indelible mark.
Richard’s deep dive into the nail sector began when he purchased the nail segment of the beauty supply store. Immersed in an emerging industry, his path took a dramatic turn after a devastating earthquake destroyed his business. This setback, however, became a pivotal moment when he was offered a job at KUPA by then-owner Robert Upshaw. Thus, Richard’s historical journey with KUPA commenced.
Founded by Robert Upshaw and Kito Ochi in 1984, KUPA pioneered the first e-file machine specifically designed for nail technicians. This innovation set a new standard in the industry. Richard’s arrival at KUPA coincided with their collaboration with Keystone Industries to manufacture acrylic liquids and powders, becoming a leading distributor of acrylic nail products to the burgeoning market.
As the growth of the e-file emerged, Richard & KUPA partnered with renowned industry educator Vicki Peters to bring formal education on the safe and effective use of e-files in salons in 2003. This partnership filled a crucial gap in the industry, establishing e-files as essential equipment in every nail salon.
Richard’s vision extended beyond distribution, dreaming of branding the products KUPA distributed. After the death of Bob Upshaw in 2012, Richard bought out the remaining partners, becoming the sole owner of KUPA Inc. This move marked the beginning of a new era of innovation and product creation under the KUPA brand. The introduction of the Manipro Passport marked Richard’s first foray into product creation and branding. Inspired by the growing pedicure market, this portable e-file was designed as an entry-level machine for new nail technicians and one that could easily go from nail table to pedicure station.
Richard’s passion for innovation drove the development of state-of-the-art e-files and salon equipment, culminating in the creation of the “eko system.” This innovative concept offered all KUPA machinery and equipment at a nail station a color changing option, creating a harmonious look and feel that matches the salon’s decor, personality, or mood.
Over the years, Richard has collaborated with numerous industry educators to ensure his innovations met the needs of nail professionals while providing extensive education. His unwavering passion for creation and improvement has kept him at the forefront of the industry. This year, as KUPA celebrates its 40 years in business, they mark the milestone by launching a new innovation—the Manipro Passport NEXT. Featuring a large LED display, a backup battery system in the docking station, and multiple color-changing options, this next-generation e-file is set to turn heads and reinforce KUPA’s legacy of innovation.
Richard Hurter’s journey from a machine shop worker to a leading figure in the nail industry exemplifies how passion and vision can transform a side job into a lifelong pursuit of excellence. As KUPA Inc. looks forward to the future, Richard’s insatiable passion for innovation continues to drive the company toward new heights, ensuring its place as a trailblazer in the nail industry for years to come.
In this insightful interview, Max shares the inspiration and challenges that led him to create his own company in 2014. He talks about his commitment to developing high-quality products that enhance the artistry of nail technicians worldwide. Max’s story is one of dedication, innovation, and an unwavering belief in the future of nail education and artistry.
Viewers will gain a deeper understanding of Max's philosophy, his creative process, and his vision for the future of nail care. Whether you’re a nail professional or simply love a good success story, this interview provides a unique glimpse into the mind of a trendsetter who is reshaping the nail industry.
What it is: A lever that allows a nail technician to control the speed of an e-file with their foot. Each pedal is designed to be compatible with its same model e-file and can be connected to the motor with a cord or in recent years wireless and connected by Bluetooth technology.
How to use it: Choose a foot pedal for hands-free control of speed of an e-file machine. This allows the technician to slowly prepare delicate surfaces or quickly remove product without stopping to adjust manual controls. It can also save time while changing e-file bits during service.
How to apply: Connect to the e-file machine by cord or blutooth to sync the motor to the foot pedal. Then, use in professional salon services as trained.
How to clean: Clean according to manufacturer’s direction.
How to store: Turn off the e-file, disconnect cord or bluetooth, and store foot pedal in a drawer or cabinet.
As the expert behind Cruise with the Nail Stars, Cincinnati based nail artist and educator John Hauk has led a successful and eclectic nail career. With over 29 years experience as an educator and compeitior, John has accumulated over 300 awards and achieved #1 competitor of the year twice after winning the Nail Pro team cups. Currently an international judge and owner of Royalty Beauty salon, he continues to collaborate with world renown artists to bring nail education and fun to the open seas.
Do you have questions for the artist? GlossaryLive will present a LIVE interview with this artist. Email your questions to be featured during the Q&A session.
What it is: Created as a substitute for more traditional hand file, the electric filing machine is specifically designed for the nail industry to make nail services quicker and place less strain on the body.
How to use: Used with various nail bits for product removal, maintenance, shaping and smoothing on salon nail services.
How to apply: After proper training with the manufacturer use in professional salon services as directed.
How to clean: Clean according to manufacturer’s direction.
How to store: Turn off machine, remove nail bit from the chuck in the hand piece to store the unit safely.
What it is: An electric-powered nail drill that contains a handpiece, a motor and a series of interchangeable drill bits. The direction of rotation and speed can be controlled on the motor during use by adjusting the controls on the motor or with some machines speed can be controlled with a foot pedal.
How to use: This rotary tool is designed to help nail technicians shape, smooth or remove artificial nail products as well as exfoliate calluses and cuticles, and prepare the nail plate for artificial nail services. With the proper training and education, an e-file can save time and money while decreasing repetitive strain injury on hands, wrists and shoulders from hand-filing.
How to apply: After proper training with the manufacturer use in professional salon services as directed.
How to clean: Clean according to manufacturer’s direction.
How to store: To store, turn off the machine, remove the nail bit from the chuck, and store the handpeice securly to avoid damage.
What it is: An electric-powered nail drill that contains a handpiece, a motor and a series of interchangeable drill bits. The direction of rotation and speed can be controlled on the motor during use by adjusting the controls on the motor or with some machines speed can be controlled with a foot pedal.
How to use: This rotary tool is designed to help nail technicians shape, smooth or remove artificial nail products as well as exfoliate calluses and cuticles, and prepare the nail plate for artificial nail services. With the proper training and education, an e-file can save time and money while decreasing repetitive strain injury on hands, wrists and shoulders from hand-filing.
How to apply: After proper training with the manufacturer use in professional salon services as directed.
How to clean: Clean according to manufacturer’s direction.
How to store: To store, turn off the machine, remove the nail bit from the chuck, and store the handpeice securly to avoid damage.
What it is: AKA in-fill, fill, nail maintenance, rebalance. A two-to three-week maintenance service to fill in the area of new growth with fresh product as well as rebalance the apex and the shape of the nail and perform any repairs needed. Sometimes used when referring to replacing and rebalancing the white portion of a pink and white nail.
How to use it: Normally performed every two to three weeks on a nail enhancement service.