A magnetic head of the present invention includes a first magnetic pole that is exposed at the air bearing surface of the magnetic head and a second magnetic pole shaping layer that is not exposed at the air bearing surface. A layer of non-magnetic material is fabricated between the air bearing surface and the shaping layer, where the non-magnetic material is also electrically conductive. The pole tip of the magnetic head is electroplated on top of the non-magnetic electrically conductive material subsequent to the fabrication of the shaping layer, and in magnetic flux communication with the shaping layer.