Press Releases

SEARK College Celebrates Successful First Year of Bench Jeweler Program With Sissy’s Log Cabin.

The program’s curriculum, designed by Master Jeweler Christo Kiffer of Sissy’s Log Cabin, follows the European apprenticeship model.

Published

4 months ago

June 24, 2024

Press Releases

SEARK College Celebrates Successful First Year of Bench Jeweler Program With Sissy’s Log Cabin.

(PRESS RELEASE) PINE BLUFF, AR — SEARK College is celebrating the first successful year of its innovative Bench Jeweler Program, created in partnership with Sissy’s Log Cabin, the largest family-owned jewelry store in the Mid-South. This milestone marks the beginning of an exciting second year for the program, which has already seen significant growth and success.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the success of our first year and to continue our partnership with SEARK College,” said Bill Jones, CEO of Sissy’s Log Cabin. “The customized curriculum has proven to be an exceptional opportunity for students to develop highly sought-after skills in Arkansas and nationwide. We are excited to see the continued growth and to hire more talented graduates.”

SEARK College Celebrates Successful First Year of Bench Jeweler Program With Sissy’s Log Cabin.

Program Crafted by Renowned Master Jeweler Christo Kiffer
The program’s curriculum, designed by Master Jeweler Christo Kiffer of Sissy’s Log Cabin, follows the esteemed European apprenticeship model. With over 30 years of experience and numerous awards, including two American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) Spectrum Awards, Kiffer’s expertise ensures a comprehensive and unique learning experience.

“The collaboration with an internationally acclaimed Master Jeweler has allowed us to create a one-of-a-kind Bench Jeweler program,” said Dr. Steven Bloomberg, president of SEARK College. “The success of our first year is a testament to the program’s quality and the demand for skilled bench jewelers.”

SEARK College Celebrates Successful First Year of Bench Jeweler Program With Sissy’s Log Cabin.

Meeting Industry Demand with 6,100 Annual Job Openings
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are approximately 6,100 annual job openings for jewelers and precious stone workers. These positions are critical as the industry seeks to replace retiring workers. “We face a significant shortage of quality-trained bench jewelers,” noted Bill Jones. “This program, in partnership with SEARK College, is the solution.”

The program, which can be completed in one year, offers additional advanced-level training thereafter. Graduates can expect to earn over $40,000 in the first year. The cost for students is $8,500, inclusive of a bench jeweler’s tool kit. Student housing, food service, and federal financial aid, including Pell Grants, are available for those who qualify.

For more information or to reserve a space, contact Dr. Steven Bloomberg, president of SEARK College, at sbloomberg@seark.edu or visit here.

Retail business owners, seize this opportunity to upskill your staff and ensure your store has the best-trained bench jewelers in the industry. Enroll your employees today.

You Wouldn’t Cut Your Own Hair. Why Run Your Own Retirement Sale?

After being in business for over a quarter of a century, Wayne Reid, owner of Wayne Jewelers in Wayne, Pennsylvania, decided it was time for a little “me time.” He says, “I’ve reached a point in my life where it’s time to slow down, enjoy a lot of things outside of the jewelry industry. It just seemed to be the right time.” He chose Wilkerson to handle his retirement sale because of their reputation and results. With financial goals exceeded, Reid says he made the right choice selecting Wilkerson to handle the sale. “They made every effort to push our jewelry to the forefront of the showcases,” he says, lauding Wilkerson for their finesse and expertise. Would he recommend them to other jewelers who want to make room for new merchandise, expand their business or like him, decide to call it a day? Absolutely he says, equating trying to do this kind of sale with cutting your own hair. “The results are going to happen but not as well as if you have a professional like Wilkerson do the job for you.”