Welcome to PiPN 2010

Pathways into Professional Needlearts (PiPN) is a unique internship experience designed to introduce young people to the professional needlearts industry and the numerous career opportunities it offers.

Developed as a partnership between The National NeedleArts Association (TNNA) and the School of Consumer and Family Sciences of the University of Akron in Akron, OH, the 2010 program has undergone significant changes. This year, we have added two new pathways.

Route #1: Students may still participate in the PiPN Summer Scholar Program through the University of Akron.  This curriculum offers students a total of 6 college credit hours, as well as an experience to remember. The program consists of two parts, each 3 credit hours, combining hands-on coursework and on-site internship placement. Students spend 3 weeks in class learning about needlearts history, techniques and the industry. As part of the summer program, students are permitted to attend the association’s June trade market. Each student then spends 8 weeks interning on-site with a designated host company.

Route #2:  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 are coordinated through each student’s individual college.

Route #3: PiPN 2010 also provides a pathway for needlearts enthusiasts not enrolled in a college program but interested in a professional needlearts career.

Students and apprentices can choose from a wide range of placements offering various work environments and experiences.

TNNA is a professional association representing companies involved in the specialty needlearts, including knitting, crochet, needlepoint, cross-stitch and embroidery. Members include manufacturers/suppliers, wholesalers, distributors, retailers, designers, teachers, publishers, and manufacturers’ representatives, as well as other business supporting this strong and growing industry.

For more information as well as student and host applications, visit TNNA.org and click on the PiPN icon.