Press Releases

MJSA Press Publishes Jeweler’s Guide to Apprenticeships

Published

7 years ago

October 3, 2017

INSTORE Staff

It explains how to find, train and keep valuable employees.

(Press Release) MJSA Press has published a new book, A Jeweler’s Guide to Apprenticeships: How to Create Effective Programs, by educator and award-winning jewelry artist Nanz Aalund. Suitable for shop owners, students and instructors, the 208-page volume provides detailed, proven approaches for finding, training and retaining valuable employees.

The book features a variety of tests and step-by-step projects, complete with full-color photos, through which apprentices can best learn about specific tools and techniques. It also features interviews with professional jewelers who relate their own inspiring experiences with apprenticeships. In his introduction, acclaimed metalsmith Charles Lewton-Brain (who served as consulting editor) wrote, “There has been nothing like this book published in America before … It will show you how to plan for an apprenticeship; how to evaluate and choose a candidate who is passionate and motivated; and how to train that person to work both for you and with you.”

The book is part of the MJSA Education Foundation’s BEaJEWELER initiative, which seeks to bring “new blood” into the jewelry industry by attracting the next generation of bench jewelers and connecting them with career opportunities. The initiative was developed as a joint project with New Approach School for Jewelers in Franklin, TN, and is funded by a grant from the JCK Industry Fund.

A Jeweler’s Guide to Apprenticeships is available for $29.50 (MJSA members receive a 15 percent discount.) To learn more or order the book, visit Publications on MJSA.org under MJSA Books or contact Publisher Rich Youmans at 1-800-444-MJSA, ext. 3025, rich.youmans@mjsa.org.

This Third-Generation Jeweler Was Ready for Retirement. He Called Wilkerson

Retirement is never easy, especially when it means the end to a business that was founded in 1884. But for Laura and Sam Sipe, it was time to put their own needs first. They decided to close J.C. Sipe Jewelers, one of Indianapolis’ most trusted names in fine jewelry, and call Wilkerson. “Laura and I decided the conditions were right,” says Sam. Wilkerson handled every detail in their going-out-of-business sale, from marketing to manning the sales floor. “The main goal was to sell our existing inventory that’s all paid for and turn that into cash for our retirement,” says Sam. “It’s been very, very productive.” Would they recommend Wilkerson to other jewelers who want to enjoy their golden years? Absolutely! “Call Wilkerson,” says Laura. “They can help you achieve your goals so you’ll be able to move into retirement comfortably.”