(PRESS RELEASE) NEW YORK — The Plumb Club’s “Shaping the Future” program has helped over 30 students from the Fashion Institute of Technology’s jewelry department gain knowledge, insight and experience in the jewelry industry since its inception a few years ago. The program, created by Michael O’Connor of The Plumb Club and Kim Nelson and Michael Coan of FIT, is a multi-pronged program that includes mentorship and internship opportunities for students and exposes fresh, new FIT talent to some of the most important supply-side manufacturers in the business.
“Shaping the Future” underscores The Plumb Club’s purpose statement by investing in FIT students who wish to make their careers in the industry. It also provides three of the top jewelry students the opportunity to see the industry in action by attending the annual JCK Las Vegas Show – often their first major trade show. This year’s three lucky students were Symphony Crutch, Alexander Genden, and Jolin Yang
At JCK, the group met with retailers and provided guided tours of the newly reengineered Plumb Club Website, which will launch in the next few weeks. They also met with The Plumb Club’s manufacturer and supplier members assisting in the Club’s social media program. Further, they enjoyed opportunities to network with the industry-at-large and source gems, components and other services, for their own work.
Symphony Crutch says, “Attending JCK and being an intern was an unforgettable experience. The connections I made, the information I gained, and the memories created are priceless. I’m so grateful for this opportunity.”
Alexander Genden agrees, adding, “It’s been a true honor. It allowed me to meet and network with people in the industry. As a jewelry student, this experience has validated that I love what I am studying and the career path I’ve chosen.”
Jolin Yang says, “The Plumb Club Mentorship Program has been incredibly valuable! I’ve received thoughtful advice that has helped. Further, watching my mentor in action at JCK allowed me to appreciate his experience and professionalism. I’m thankful to have been able to participate in this program.”
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Kim Nelson, assistant chair of the jewelry design/fashion department at FIT, feels the program has made a huge impact. “It has been thrilling for me to witness the impact The Plumb Club is having on our students. These interactions have made a meaningful contribution to their educational experience, and the concepts and insights they have been exposed to have found their way into classroom conversations and the work these students produce; they have been given a window on the jewelry industry in action that will illuminate their careers for decades to come. I wish I had access to these amazing opportunities when I was studying in the Jewelry Design Program at FIT back in the early 90’s, and I sincerely thank Michael O’Connor and the membership of The Plumb Club for making this commitment to the fresh minds and hands that will go on to build and shape the jewelry industry.”
