Pathways into Professional Needlearts

Summer 2007
In association with University of Akron, Akron OH, The National NeedleArts Association (TNNA) is sponsoring a summer student internship program designed to introduce young people to professional needlearts and to provide them with a pathway into this growing industry. 
 
This is the second year of the program.  During the summer of 2006, ten student interns worked with ten host companies, including retailers, wholesalers, manufacturers and teachers of the needlearts, as well as one company focusing on garment design for a niche market.  The internships proved to be extremely beneficial to both the students and mentoring companies.
 
The National NeedleArts Association (TNNA) is a professional trade organization of designers, retailers, manufacturers, wholesalers, and publishers that turn their passion for the needlearts into successful careers in a strong industry. The term "Needlearts" refers to any form of hand technique utilizing a needle and some type of fiber, yarn or thread in an effort to create a final product that may be both functional and attractive.  Simply put — Crochet, Needlepoint, Knitting, Embroidery, and Cross-stitch.

Students
Take the first step to an exciting
and creative career!
TNNA Members
Bring new energy into your company by becoming a PiPN host.
See what last year's interns say about their experiences:

Melanie Galmish
"I would like to express my appreciation and gratitude for the Pathways into Professional Needlearts.  I think every day about my experience and how wonderful it was."

Jocelyn Buckey
"I can't speak highly enough about the staff at (my host company).  Without them I can honestly say it couldn't have been as knowledgeable and enjoyable.  I was honored to be their guest and intern!"

Megan Eberhardt
"The internshp program that TNNA offered was a blessing.  The experiences and knowledge I gained at (my host company) will carry me through a lifetime.  I only hope others will have the same positive opportunities.  It was a wonderful summer.  I wish I could do it again."

Breean Miller
"I learned a lot about running a business on a daily basis.  This is important to me because one of my career goals is to have a business of my own."		See what last year's hosts say about their experiences:

Jennifer Hansen, Stitch Diva Studios, CA
"(Our intern) put in an excellent effort at this job and went above and beyond her duties.  She showed great flexibility and desire to succeed.  I thoroughly enjoyed my time with her and she made significant contributions to the operations of my company."

Brian Cousins, Suss Designs, CA
"We have nothing but wonderful things to report about our intern.  We really enjoyed having (her) as part of our summer. She contributed in many ways to our staff and involved herself with store programs."

Karen Rumpza, Needlework Unlimited, MN
"I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation for the work (our intern) performed this summer.  She is an intelligent and delightful young woman.  She completed a market analysis, worked on many displays and new signage.  Because this was such a positive experience, I would be interested in participating again."

Laura Kelly, A Handwork Studio, PA
"I want to express my pleasaure at the quality and caliber of intern you have provided me with this summer.  (She) has been delightful on so many levels and has integrated seamlessly into both my business and our home."