(PRESS RELEASE) TROY, MI — TJS (The Jewelry Symposium), the jewelry industry’s annual international event dedicated specifically to the advancement of jewelry manufacturing technology, announced the six scholarship awardees for its 2026 edition. Generously sponsored by GIA, Mano Acero Jewelry, Techform Casting, and Dougherty Charitable Fund, the six scholarships (listed below) were awarded to four students, one apprentice, and an emerging jeweler who was recently promoted from an apprenticeship.
“We were delighted by the passionate interest in TJS and the quality of the scholarship applications this year,” says Linus Drogs, Chairman of the Board at TJS. “Given the concerning attrition of skilled workers in our industry, we could not be happier to welcome these talented students and apprentices. We hope that they will gain new skills and make connections that will launch their careers, just as so many of us TJS attendees have over the years.”
The six 2026 TJS Scholarship Awardees are listed in alphabetical order below:
(left to right) William Lew, Camille Richard, Aaron Taylor
- William Lew, Student at Skidmore College Jewelry & Metals program
“This scholarship means a great deal to me. I care deeply about craftsmanship, and being able to attend TJS and learn from leaders in the field is an opportunity I’m incredibly grateful for.” @therealwill_lew and @thingswillfinds on Instagram
- Camille Richard, Apprentice to Master Jeweler Ronda Coryell
“I am thrilled to be a recipient of the 2026 TJS Scholarship. The opportunity to learn from top professionals and experts in the jewelry industry is a great honor. The variety of topics scheduled will help expand my horizons and expose me to new facets of the industry. I look forward to applying what I learn to my professional work.” @hammersong.studios on Instagram
- Aaron Taylor, Skeie’s Jewelers, Shop Lead and Jeweler (recently promoted from apprentice)
“I am very honored to have the opportunity to attend this year’s Jewelry Symposium! It will be a truly invaluable experience to spend time with such pioneers in the industry and learn from fellow jewelers and goldsmiths that have the same passion for pushing the limits of the craft. Thank you to TJS for having me and giving me the chance to continue to gain new friends in the jewelry community and learn from the very best!” @the_aarontaylor on Instagram
(left to right) Kylie Weinzierl, Ron White, Amelia Zavagnin
- Kylie Weinzierl, Student at North Bennet Street School
“I am so honored to have been accepted as a scholarship awardee to the Jewelry Symposium. As a student passionate about building my skills, and learning as much as possible about the industry, I am incredibly excited to learn about new technology, meet new people, and explore a place that will help me advance my knowledge and career of the jewelry industry!” @kyneticarts on IG
- Ron White, Student at North Bennett Street School
“Thank you tremendously to TJS for selecting me. Such a dream of an opportunity to learn so much industry knowledge and hear from so many amazing minds in one place. Excited to be a part of this and have this core memory!” @2ronnn2 on Instagram
- Amelia Zavagnin, Student at GIA (Canada)
“This is very generous of the TJS Board and sponsors. As a first-generation jeweler, this is a wonderful opportunity to learn and connect with experienced people. Everyone I have met in this industry is supportive and encouraging of passionate students who want to jumpstart their career. The topics of the 2026 Symposium are fascinating and will help build a solid foundation of knowledge going forward.” (no social media handles)
The scholarships will cover the symposium registration fee, three nights at the venue (the Detroit Marriott Troy hotel May 17th, 18th, & 19th) and meals catered by TJS, as well as a book, a thumb drive of all presentations, and a formal certificate of attendance.
Advertisement
For more information or event details regarding TJS, visit www.thejewelrysymposium.com, or email Jessa Cast or [email protected].
