Pathways into Professional Needlearts (PiPN)
Over 30 TNNA members offered more than 35 positions during the summer of PiPN 2010. More than 40 young people applied, with more than 20 taking on internships and apprenticeships this year.
PiPN provides a doorway into a career in the fiber arts, whether it be knitting, crochet, needlepoint, cross-stitch, or embroidery related. . . . or spinning, weaving, quilting or sewing for that matter. Those who are passionate about textiles, fashion design, merchandising, retail marketing, home decor, art, costuming, or many other creative expressions can find rewarding futures in the needlearts. Just as the members of TNNA!
PiPN provides three different pathways for those interested in a future in fiber!
Route #1: PiPN Scholar
PiPN 2010 summer programs are being offered at the University of Akron, Akron OH. Plans are underway to establish other PiPN programs at schools across the country.
The PiPN Scholar Program is made up of two separate classes for a total of 6 credit hours. The first (3 credits) is a hands-on course teaching all the needlearts techniques — knitting, crochet, needlepoint, cross-stitch and embroidery. The second (3 credits) is an 8 week long program during which time the student works on-site with a select host company.
Route #2: Internship only
PiPN 2010 opens the door to students who are not able to participate in a hands-on class, but still wish to intern with a TNNA host company. Internships will all be coordinated through each student's individual college.
Route #3: Apprenticeship
PiPN 2010 also provides a pathway for needlearts enthusiasts not enrolled in a college program but interested in a professional needlearts career.
PiPN opens doors to students interested in a career in the specialty needlearts industry!
In 2006, in association with the University of Akron, Akron OH, TNNA developed an academically acclaimed curriculum designed to introduce young people to professional needlearts and to provide them with a pathway into this growing industry.
Since then, PiPN has brought student interns together from colleges across the country for a very different kind of experience. After an intensive, hands-on workshop and a visit to TNNA's June market, interns spent the rest of the summer working with TNNA host companies — including retailers, wholesalers, manufacturers, teachers and designers of specialty needlearts. The internships have proven to be extremely beneficial to both the students and mentoring companies.
Interns and hosts were matched based on each party's interests, needs, location preference and availability.