Our Staff
Amar Sila
Amar is an co-owner of The Fade Factory, with over a decade of experience behind the chair. He began cutting hair in June 2012 at a young age, starting with family before quickly building trust with friends and classmates. What began as a hobby turned into a calling. By high school, barbering had already become his career path, fueled by relentless practice, passion, and a drive to master his craft. A graduate of La’ James International College in Cedar Rapids, Amar combines formal training with years of real-world experience. He’s known not just for his skill, but for the energy he brings into the shop — creating an environment built on teamwork, unity, and respect. He believes barbering is more than haircuts; it’s about connection, confidence, and uplifting others. Amar proudly works with all hair types, all ages, and all backgrounds. Everyone is welcome in his chair. The Fade Factory is his first location, but his vision goes far beyond one shop.
Co-Owner
Rich
Rich is the co-owner and senior barber at The Fade Factory, bringing nearly two decades of experience, leadership, and passion into the shop. A respected figure in the barbering community, he has successfully helped build and manage multiple locations, with roots in both Cedar Rapids and Iowa City. His deep understanding of the craft is matched by his strength in shop management, mentorship, and community connection. Known for the relationships he’s built around town, Rich believes barbering is about more than hair — it’s about unity, love, and creating spaces where people feel welcome. He takes pride in teaching and training the next generation of barbers, always sharing knowledge and pushing others to grow. With years of dedication behind him and no sign of slowing down, Rich continues to lead by example, welcoming everyone into the shop — from longtime clients to newcomers eager to experience the culture and skill that define The Fade Factory.
Co-Owner
Russ is a dedicated and highly skilled barber at The Fade Factory whose journey into the craft began during his college years. Originally an athlete, an injury forced him to step away from sports — a turning point that led him to discover his passion for barbering. Under the guidance of Richard at a Cedar Rapids barbershop, Russ learned the fundamentals and quickly refined his technique, later gaining experience in multiple shops to sharpen both his artistry and professionalism. To Russ, barbering is more than a service — it’s an art form built on precision, creativity, and intention. He is known for delivering a luxury experience with high-quality results, while creating a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere through genuine connection and conversation. Committed to growth and excellence, Russ continues to elevate his craft, blending skill, style, and personality into every cut he delivers.
BarberRuss
BarberDavid
Dave is a dedicated barber, proud father, and true people-person who brings heart and experience into every cut. A graduate of La’ James International College in Iowa City, he has been in the barbering industry for years, building a reputation for skill, professionalism, and genuine care for his clients. After taking time away to focus on family, Dave returned to The Fade Factory stronger than ever, driven by his passion for the craft and the connections he creates in the chair. He works confidently with all ages, all hair types, and all backgrounds, believing every client deserves to feel seen, respected, and sharp when they leave. Known as an inspirational presence in the shop, Dave loves mentoring others, sharing knowledge, and helping teammates grow. He’s a true team player who values unity, positivity, and making a lasting difference in both his workplace and his community.
Rue
Reu is a talented young barber with nearly four years of experience, driven by curiosity, passion, and a love for the craft. His journey started in high school, cutting hair for fun while learning from friends and classmates and constantly asking questions to improve. With the support of his parents, he began cutting from home, building confidence and sharpening his skills before receiving additional training at Elevated Cuts in Marion, Iowa. That experience solidified his passion and pushed him to pursue barbering as more than just a hobby. Determined to grow, Rue joined The Fade Factory to be part of something bigger than himself. Today, he’s recognized as one of the shop’s most reliable barbers — known for his laid-back personality, compassion for clients, and natural ability to make people feel comfortable in his chair. Despite his young age, Rue brings maturity, talent, and dedication that sets him apart, and he continues to grow into one of the strongest barbers in the shop.
Barber
Sieria Calhoun
Sieria is a driven, self-made stylist at The Fade Factory who built her foundation through discipline, dedication, and a genuine passion for the craft. As a self-taught artist who later invested in one-on-one professional training, she transformed her natural talent into a precise, technical skillset rooted in consistency and care. She specializes in loc maintenance, starter locs, braiding, and custom protective styles, bringing clean execution and creative detail to every client she serves. Known for her versatility and attention to detail, Sieria adapts to each client’s hair, vision, and lifestyle while maintaining a strong focus on healthy hair practices. Her calm confidence and welcoming energy help build trust and long-lasting relationships. Committed to long-term growth in both her craft and brand, Sieria believes hair is an extension of identity and confidence — and every style she creates is designed to leave clients feeling empowered, polished, and fully themselves.
Stylist
Abdul is a dedicated barber with over four years of experience, bringing skill, patience, and passion to every haircut. He has built a strong reputation for working with clients of all ages, developing his craft after first learning from family and friends and growing through steady support from teammates and co-workers. What started as a hobby quickly turned into a true passion. Abdul genuinely loves cutting hair and is driven by the goal of becoming an exceptional barber while using his talent to make a positive impact in his community. Every client in his chair gets his full focus and commitment to quality.
BarberAbdul
BarberAhmed
Ahmed Mohamed is a passionate barber with over two years of hands-on experience, known for delivering clean, detailed cuts for clients of all ages and hair types. He began his journey in 2024 cutting friends and family from home, quickly building his skills and confidence before bringing his talent into a professional shop environment. Since then, he has continued to expand his craft, always learning new techniques and styles to better serve his clients. Ahmed takes pride in creating a comfortable experience for everyone in his chair and is dedicated to helping each client leave looking sharp and feeling confident.
Amgad Mergani
Amgad Mergani (Jerry) is a motivated and driven barber with over two years of hands-on experience, known for delivering sharp, clean, and detailed haircuts across all hair textures. His barbering journey began in 2024, cutting hair for friends and family at home, where he quickly developed both confidence and passion for the craft. What started as a simple interest soon turned into a serious pursuit of excellence. Through dedication and consistent practice,
Jerry sharpened his technique and transitioned into a professional barbershop environment, where he continues to refine his skills and grow as a barber. Always staying up to date with modern styles and evolving trends, Jerry focuses on precision, attention to detail, and providing a comfortable experience for every client. His goal is simple: make sure everyone who sits in his chair leaves the shop looking fresh, confident, and satisfied with their cut.
Barber
Arturio Henderson
Arturio Henderson, known in the shop as Tman, is a passionate barber beginning his journey at The Fade Factory. A proud father and son, he brings strong values of responsibility, growth, and perseverance to his craft.
For Tman, barbering is more than cutting hair—it’s an art that keeps him focused and driven. As he continues sharpening his skills and learning from those around him, he’s committed to delivering clean cuts and building genuine connections with every client who sits in his chair.
Barber