Editor’s Note
**Editor’s Note:** DCA is shaping the future of jewelry retail through expanded education, leadership development, and workforce solutions. New initiatives—including a management training program, an innovative workforce effort, and a diploma credential—aim to strengthen teams and open career pathways in the industry.
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.
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.
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.
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.
DCA also introduced the 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.
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.
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.
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.
