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Building the Future of Jewelry Retail: DCA Expands Education, Leadership Development, and Workforce Solutions
DCA is preparing the next generation of professionals by supporting workforce development, leadership growth, and career advancement.
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The jewelry industry has always been powered by people – knowledgeable sales professionals, strong managers, and dedicated teams who build trust with customers every day. As retailers face increasing competition for talent and prepare for a new generation of professionals, the Diamond Council of America (DCA) is expanding its role as an educational resource for the industry through new programs designed to support workforce development, leadership growth, and career advancement.
From a newly launched management training program to an innovative workforce initiative and a new diploma credential, DCA is helping retailers strengthen their teams while creating new opportunities for individuals seeking meaningful careers in jewelry retail.
Developing Stronger Sales Leaders
One of DCA's newest offerings is the Sales & Management Masterclass, a five-part live webinar series created specifically for jewelry retail sales managers and emerging leaders. Running from August through October, 2026 and led by nationally recognized sales trainer Brad Huisken, the program addresses a common challenge faced by many retailers: high-performing sales associates are often promoted into management roles without formal leadership training.
The masterclass provides practical guidance on communication, coaching, accountability, goal setting, team development, and customer relationship building. Through live sessions, participants gain actionable strategies they can immediately apply within their stores to improve team performance and customer experiences.
By focusing on leadership development, DCA is helping retailers invest not only in sales performance, but also in the long-term success of their teams.
Creating New Pathways Into the Industry
At the same time, DCA is tackling another critical challenge facing jewelry retailers: attracting and developing new talent.
The organization's recently launched Second Spark Workforce Initiative connects veterans and parents returning to the workforce with career opportunities in jewelry retail. The program was created in response to the growing talent gap affecting many retailers as experienced professionals retire and competition for qualified employees increases.
Second Spark provides participants with education, mentorship, career-readiness support, and direct connections to employment opportunities. Participants complete a curriculum built around DCA's core sales education courses while also receiving résumé coaching, interview preparation, mentorship, and job-placement assistance.
The initiative benefits both participants and employers. Veterans and returning parents gain access to a rewarding career path, while retailers gain access to motivated individuals with valuable transferable skills and professional training.
A New Credential for Career Growth
Supporting these efforts is DCA's recently launched Diploma in Gem & Jewelry Sales, a new credential that recognizes comprehensive achievement across DCA's educational curriculum. Professionals who successfully complete DCA's four core courses – Beginning Jewelry Sales, Diamonds, Colored Gemstones, and Advanced Jewelry Sales – earn the diploma and demonstrate a well-rounded foundation in both product knowledge and professional selling skills.
The diploma serves as a key milestone within DCA's educational pathway:
Learn. Graduate. Get Certified.
Students begin by building knowledge through individual courses, graduate with the Diploma in Gem & Jewelry Sales, and can then pursue Jewelers of America's Certified Sales & Service Professional (CSSP) credential to further advance their professional qualifications.
For retailers, the diploma provides a clear framework for employee development. For sales professionals, it offers a meaningful credential that demonstrates commitment, expertise, and career growth.
Investing in the Industry's Future
Under the leadership of President & CEO Annie E. Doresca, DCA's newest initiatives share a common goal: strengthening the future of jewelry retail through education.
"Whether we're helping a sales associate build product knowledge, preparing a manager to lead a high-performing team, or creating pathways for new talent to enter our industry, DCA remains focused on one mission – providing accessible, practical education that helps people and businesses succeed," said Doresca.
"These programs represent an investment not only in individual careers, but in the long-term strength of the jewelry industry itself."
As retailers continue to navigate workforce challenges and evolving customer expectations, DCA's expanding portfolio of educational programs offers practical solutions for developing talent at every level – from first-time sales professionals to experienced managers and future industry leaders.
By investing in education, leadership, and workforce development, DCA is helping ensure that the next generation of jewelry professionals is prepared to serve customers with knowledge, confidence, and professionalism.
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