Mr. Desmond Kirton
Follow the Leader
Desmond Kirton, MBA a U.S. Army veteran and South Philadelphia native, is a highly skilled technician whose expertise extends beyond construction. As the founder of Des In The Cut Construction Company, he brings mastery in carpentry, wood framing, electrical work, plumbing, tile, and masonry, ensuring craftsmanship and community impact in every project.
After retiring from Murrell Dobbins Career and Technical Education High School in June 2023, following over a decade of teaching the science, art, and business of barbering, Desmond- also known as DJ Cut The Check- continues to lead through mentorship and innovation. As a Teacher Technology Leader and School DJ, he fused music, technology, and education to leave a lasting impact on urban education.
IHis leadership extends into the grooming industry, having managed Des In The Cut Unisex Hair Salon with professionalism and excellence. But Desmond’s vision is bigger than a single classroom or shop.
Backed by the Fellows For Justice Scholarship Program from Strayer University, he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Homeland Security & Emergency Management (2022) and now holds an MBA in Project Management (2025)- aligning his academic journey with his heart for workforce development, public safety, and opportunity creation for youth across Philadelphia.
As the founder of the DÄ“z Kids Construction Education Program, Desmond now leads a dynamic initiative providing Philadelphia youth ages 14-21 with hands-on construction training, industry certifications, and real mentorship. The program targets environmental justice, workforce readiness, and gun violence prevention, all while empowering youth to rebuild and reclaim their own neighborhoods.
Desmond’s impact has earned him high recognition, including:
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2015 Lindback Distinguished Teacher of the Year
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Acknowledgment as a “Narrative Changer” by the Philadelphia Mayor’s Office of Black Male Engagement
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Three Citations for Community Service from the Philadelphia City Council
Alongside his barbering, contracting, and OSHA safety certifications, Desmond’s strengths include mentoring, public speaking, Christian counseling, proofreading, and full-scale home remodeling.
His unwavering faith in God is the foundation of his mission- to build not only structures but pathways to purpose and success. Whether in the shop, on the block, or at the boardroom table, Desmond’s personal mantra stays the same:
“It is already working.”
A reminder that through service, obedience, and faith, lives are transformed and communities are rebuilt- one soul, one student, and one project at a time.