Enthusiastic participation seen at GIA’s 26th Jewelry Career Fair

GIA’s 26th annual Jewelry Career Fair attracted and witnessed enthusiastic participation both on behalf of job seekers and recruiters. More than 500 students, job seekers and industry veterans attended the event on July 24. Sponsored by Jewelers of America at the Javits Center in New York City, the free, one-day-only event was an opportunity for attendees to connect with companies through an opening keynote presentation, one-on-one career coaching sessions and networking with nearly 50 recruiters.

GIA President and CEO Susan M. Jacques moderated the panel “Job Success in Today’s Market” featuring industry leaders offering specific advice to aspiring gem and jewelry professionals on the importance of relationships, education and persistence.

“Clients, especially at the luxury level, are looking for authority; they’re looking for trust and they’re looking for a relationship,” said Hank Siegel, president and CEO of Hamilton Jewelers. Regina Ciarleglio, director of retail development for Worthy Inc., spoke on the importance of education in the industry. Elliot Tannenbaum, senior principal of Leo Schachter Diamond Group and a member of the GIA Board of Governors, spoke on the importance of persistence and the lessons he learned through his decades of experience. Marion Fasel, founder and editorial director of TheAdventurine.com, and Mary Feliciano, recent GIA graduate now working in technical product development for Signet Jewelers Ltd., rounded out the panel.

Following the opening session, job seekers interacted with recruiters and had one-on-one career coaching with specialists in appraising, design, gemstones, manufacturing, marketing, retail and more.