Shawn Ledet
Owner & Visionary Investor
From Military Discipline to Business Vision
After serving our nation with honor in the United States military, Shawn Ledet brought the same dedication, structure, and commitment to excellence to the civilian business world. A strategic thinker with a proven track record of leadership, Shawn recognized something extraordinary when he first encountered A Better U Beauty Barber Academy: not just a business, but a powerful movement transforming lives.
"I saw founder Patrick Jenkins' passion for mentoring young people and immediately understood this was more than a barber school," Shawn reflects. "This was about creating pathways to success, building confidence, and strengthening communities. The potential was undeniable."
The Strategic Partnership
In a strategic partnership that would change the trajectory of barber education in Albuquerque, Shawn joined forces with Master Barber Patrick Jenkins. Together, they combined military-grade discipline with four decades of barbering expertise to create New Mexico's premier barber academy. Under Shawn's leadership, A Better U has become what he calls "the economic air of Albuquerque"—essential, life-giving, and positively impacting every corner of our community.
Shawn's focus on operational excellence, student support systems, and community engagement has transformed hundreds of young lives while establishing the academy as an anchor institution in New Mexico. His military background ensures every student receives the structure and discipline needed to succeed in both their education and future careers.
A Philosophy of Professionalism
"Be professional, be a professional" isn't just a motto for Shawn—it's the foundation of everything he builds at ABU Academy. This guiding principle shapes how students are trained, how staff operates, and how the academy engages with the community.
We're not just teaching haircuts. We're building entrepreneurs, community leaders, and confident professionals. Every graduate represents another success story for Albuquerque.
— Shawn Ledet
Leadership Principles
Excellence in Execution
Bringing military precision to business operations, ensuring every aspect of student education meets the highest standards.
Strategic Partnerships
Building alliances that amplify impact, from community organizations to industry leaders and educational partners.
Sustainable Growth
Focusing on long-term success rather than short-term gains, building an institution that serves generations to come.