GIA’s Jewelry Career Fair attracted large gathering of job seekers

GIA’s Carlsbad headquarters saw a large gathering of over 500 job seekers meeting 27 companies and interacting in many other ways at the annual GIA (Gemological Institute of America) Jewelry Career Fair & Open House, on October 5, 2012. Taking place the same day as national job numbers were released from the US government, the event proved a solid indicator that the business of bling has a bright future.

The event drew crowds for hiring opportunities, one-on-one career coaching and an array of panel discussions with industry executives, entrepreneurs, and designers. “A vibrant industry like ours can grow and thrive, even in challenging times,” said Donna Baker, GIA president and CEO. “It’s wonderful to see how many diverse opportunities the gem and jewelry business provides for talented, passionate professionals.”

The event kicked off with “Job Success in Today’s Market,” a panel presentation moderated by Baker. Panelists Matt Runci, president and CEO of Jewelers of America; GIA graduate Charlie Herner, CAD/CAM director, Green Lake Jewelry Works; Cathryn Ramirez, group director, Tiffany & Co.; and Jordan Tabach-Bank, owner and CEO of Beverly Loan Company and New York Loan Company, shared their experiences in the gem and jewelry business and offered insider advice for job seekers looking to move ahead or start their careers.

Industry experts also delivered a discussion on “Design to Finish”, exploring design and manufacturing, and providing career insights within these domains. There was also a discussion on “Creative Careers”.

Kathryn Kimmel, GIA vice-president, CMO and co-founder of the GIA Career Fair, said, “The dynamic and fascinating people who were kind enough to give of their time and expertise demonstrated the talent, ambition, intellect and character that make our industry so wonderful and so unique.”