GIA: Eye on the Future
Taking a “break” from the rows of jewelry aisles, I attended the Gemological Institute of America’s first “Mini” Jewelry Career Fair on May 31 at the JCK Las Vegas show. But it was hardly mini. It was perfect timing considering the economy and the challenges the jewelry industry has faced. Approximately 200 job seekers attended the panel discussion, and received coaching sessions and information on jewelry career opportunities.
The “Job Success in Today’s Market” panel included John Green of Lux Bond & Green; Matthew Green, sales director of Europe, Middle East, and Asia for John Hardy; Joel Schechter of Honora; and Phyllis Bergman of Mercury Ring Corporation. It was inspiring to hear John Green speak about his family’s business, and the passion he has for his job. Joel Schechter’s “Top 10” list of qualities employers and job seekers should look for and have was equally informative. Speaking of passion, as Schechter mentioned, shouldn’t we all love Mondays? If you don’t, the next GIA career fair is scheduled for October 16, 2009, at its Carlsbad headquarters.
Looking towards the future, GIA has developed an on-line multimedia format for its distance learning courses in gemology and jewelry sales. This “eLearning” program is available for its Accredited Jewelry Professional diploma and “Diamonds & Diamond Grading” program. Courses include audio, video for hands-on demonstrations, interviews with experts, instructor lectures, and “see it for yourself” segments. For more information, call (800) 421-4250 or see a demonstration at www.gia.edu/elearning.
GIA also just became a member of the Responsible Jewelry Council, an international nonprofit organization committed to promoting responsible ethical, human rights, social, and environmental practices in a transparent and accountable manner. From the RJC to career fairs to eLearning, it’s reassuring to see GIA keep its vision focused on both the current and future generations of the jewelry industry. — Matthew Kramer
That’s really a good advice. The students need to know they are making a choice for their lives. It’s an important step to start building their careers.