Two upcoming events sponsored by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) include its Jewelry Career Fair on July 28, 2006, in New York; and a weeklong executive training program in London July 31 through August 4, 2006. GIAs New York fair will touch upon topics related to the latest employment trends, professional development, and self-marketing. Kathryn Kimmel, GIAs career fair creator said, "Career Fair is a rare chance to talk to experts from every aspect of the gem and jewelry business who truly understand what it takes to get a job, keep a job, and prosper in this fascinating field."

Some of the headline speakers and trainers cover a wide cross-section of the industry and include: Jacob Arabo, founder and CEO of Jacob and Co.; Ben Janowski, president of the Janos Group Ltd.; Steven Lagos, owner of LAGOS; Peggy Jo Donahue, director of public affairs for the Jewelers of America; Ann Arnold, president of the Womens Jewelry Association; Linda Buckley, vice president of media relations for Tiffany & Co.; Barbara Mooty, vice president and industry relations for Charles & Colvard Ltd., and Jennifer Tarsoly, sales division manager for Lazare Kaplan Inc.

The London branch of the GIA is sponsoring its weeklong executive training program, beginning July 31, 2006, to help those in the jewelry industry advance into leadership positions and learn how to expand their businesses internationally. GIAs School of Business associate professor Dr. David McKinney will conduct the training. The program will teach real-world executive management strategies and will include an in-depth discussion of global issues and trends affecting the jewelry industry. Other topics will include international business planning, merchandising, and sales management.

The program deals with specific global challenges specifically on currencies and cultures. There will be opportunities to discuss international strategic alliances, and participants will design a marketing program related to their business. At the close of the seminar, successful participants will be awarded a GIA School of Business certificate of completion. The executive training program will be repeated in London during the week of November 27 to December 1, 2006 and at GIA Taiwan during the week of December 18-22, 2006. In addition, there will also be a two-day marketing seminar on these topics in Dubai on July 4-5, 2006.