Jewelers' Alliance Confronts the 'Big Quit'

RAPAPORT... Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) has developed a new mentoring and apprenticeship program to help the industry attract and train workers.The initiative aims to counter the severe labor shortage the trade is currently experiencing due to the "Big Quit," MJSA said last week. The program will provide businesses the tools they need to recruit and train apprentices.In its initial stage, the project will focus on creating a training program for bench jewelers and will include a framework of the job's functions, education on hiring and training, and online tutorials. MJSA will also create a searchable database of mentors and apprenticeships."I've heard from so many members how hard it's been to find and train the help they need - some have said it's the number-one threat to their business," said MJSA CEO David Cochran. "Our goal is to create vetted resources that jewelers everywhere can easily use to ensure both their and the industry's continued vitality."Image: A person manufacturing jewelry. (MJSA)