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Recruit Top Jeweler Talent: Connecting AGS Members with top talent from SCAD’s Jewelry Program
Tuesday September 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Congressional A
As part of AGS’s support of the Bench Education Endowment initiative by Jewelers Mutual and its collaboration with Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), members have access to exciting new opportunities to connect with exceptional emerging talent. This session will explore how AGS members can engage with SCAD’s career services ecosystem to recruit interns, apprentices, bench talent, and commercially prepared graduates. Learn how to make the most of this relationship and how JM and AGS can support your recruitment needs.
Speakers
avatar for Mark Smelzer

Mark Smelzer

VP, Business Development, Jewelers Mutual Group
Mark is a 22-year veteran of the jewelry business, having joined the industry as publisher of JCK magazine in 2004.  In 2021, he was fortunate enough to join the Jewelers Mutual Group, where he works on a variety of projects in business development and marketing.

In 2022, Mark w... Read More →
Panelists
avatar for Eleanor Twiford

Eleanor Twiford

Associate Vice President, Career and Alumni Success, SCAD
Eleanor Twiford is a creative executive and results-oriented leader with more than 25 years of experience building teams, developing talent strategies, and creating high-impact experiences at the intersection of education, creativity, and industry. Internationally recognized for her... Read More →
avatar for Jaimie Vela

Jaimie Vela

Sr. Director of Advising, Career and Alumni Success, SCAD
Jaimie Vela is a higher education leader and award-winning jewelry designer, with more than 25 years of experience at the intersection of creativity, luxury, and student success. She is recognized for building meaningful relationships, developing professionals, and translating the... Read More →
avatar for Jennifer Markas

Jennifer Markas

Head of Industry Relations & Impact Fund, Jewelers Mutual Group
Jewelers Mutual is excited to champion the next generation of bench jewelers through its investment in the Savannah College of Art & Design. Ask me how I can help you recruit and hire talented bench jewelers with a passion for craftsmanship!
avatar for Kevin Mays

Kevin Mays

John Mays Jewelers
Kevin works at John Mays Jewelers, a family store in Fort Smith, Arkansas, that’s been serving its community since 1999. He started full-time in the jewelry industry in 2004, beginning with sales and basic repairs. In 2007, Mays graduated from GIA’s bench jeweler program, and... Read More →
Tuesday September 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Congressional A
  Track, Business Management

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