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New York, NY – Diamond Council of America (DCA), a distance education non-profit for the jewelry industry, has launched of the “Second Spark Workforce Initiative,” designed to connect veterans and returning parents with rewarding careers in jewelry retail while helping the industry address a critical and growing talent gap.

Faced with the challenges of retirements, an aging labor pool and increased competition for retail talent, DCA says the Second Spark Initiative will create “a new pipeline of trained professionals” for the jewelry industry. The program also opens doors for veterans and returning parents with strong transferable skills by providing accessible training and direct connections to career opportunities.

“We’re proud to launch Second Spark as a unique solution to two important needs—creating career opportunities for veterans and returning parents, and strengthening the future workforce of our industry,” said Annie Doresca, DCA president & CEO. “It’s a program built on both purpose and practicality.”

Launching with an inaugural cohort of up to 100 participants, the program offers an eight, to10-week curriculum built around four DCA courses. Participants earn the DCA Diploma in Gem and Jewelry Sales and receive résumé and interview coaching, mentorship and job-placement support with retail partners. Graduates may also pursue the Certified Sales & Service Professional (CSSP) credential through Jewelers of America.

Second Spark is supported by the JCK Industry Fund and is seeking additional partners to expand its reach. Backed by DCA’s educational infrastructure, the program aims to strengthen the future of jewelry retail by aligning employer needs with a skilled and motivated workforce.

For more information about the Second Spark Workforce Initiative or partnership opportunities, please visit https://www.dcalearning.org/secondspark.