Tricia M. Gotti

At Rebel Ink Tattoo & Piercing, located in Queens and Massapequa, New York, Tricia M. Gotti has served as the shop manager and co-owner alongside her son, John Joseph, since its inception in 2016. Without knowing anything about the tattoo industry, she supported his endeavor and strived to utilize her entrepreneurial experience to make his dream a reality. In her role there, she helps her son oversee daily operations of the business, making sure equipment is state-of-the-art and the shop is up-to-date on all procedures, handles all customer service needs, works with the artists, represents the business at many conventions throughout the year, and specializes in Microblading, a semi-permanent makeup procedure she provides clients. In addition to these responsibilities, she has worked hard to grow the business to serve the community of Ozone Park and surrounding areas, giving back as much as possible and participating in several fundraisers.

Ms. Gotti grew to have a new respect for the tattoo industry upon seeing how the art has evolved and how much they help people; “some embrace one’s identity, while other clients say they have helped them cope with mental or health concerns, and help to hide scars,” she noted. “Overall, tattoos enable self-expression, empowerment, and, for some, serve as a badge of rehabilitation.”

Outside of her work in the shop, Ms. Gotti has been active as a full-time crisis paraprofessional within the New York City Board of Education since 2012—providing emotional and behavioral support to children In need and working alongside an Individualized Education Plan team—and, prior to this appointment, worked with special needs children from 2008 to 2012. Moreover, she has always been civically involved, serving as a sponsor for the female rugby team at Hofstra University, a volunteer and donor for the 9/11 Run for Ritchie in Queens, a contributor to a breast cancer fundraiser, a supporter and contributor for several substance abuse and addiction initiatives, and a staunch supporter of local football and baseball teams.

While she was in high school, Ms. Gotti wasn’t encouraged to pursue a college degree; instead, when she was 16, she became interested in nails and nail art—and her father ultimately helped her start a nail salon business, Nails Image, of which she was the owner for many years as a teenager. However, completing a college education was always a goal of hers—especially as she began having children, wanting to become an example and role model for them. In the midst of raising her five children—ranging from nine to 28 years old—and supporting her family, she pursued higher education at Empire State University, and ultimately earned an associate’s degree in 2020. She is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in science community and human services, with a concentration in child services, from the institution.

Ms. Gotti attributes her success to her passion for what she does and being able to see her children succeed in their endeavors. Looking ahead, she intends to continue navigating life’s challenges and prove that as long as she has a driving force, anything she wants will be achieved.