Welcome to PiPN

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

Originally developed, over six years ago, 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, PiPN has become an academically acclaimed program providing participants with opportunities for learning far beyond the classroom walls.

Students and pre-professionals gain through hands-on skills training, professional development and invaluable industry connections.

Host companies benefit from the fresh talent, energy and creativity brought to their companies by interns and apprentices eager to learn and to contribute.

In 2010 PiPN underwent significant changes.Based on the terrific response from both host companies and interns, we continue to offer three pathways into the needlearts.

Route #1: Students may participate in the PiPN Summer Scholar Program through the University of Akron, Akron OH or through the Mississippi State University, Starkville MS.

At the University of Akron, the 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.

Mississippi State University’s curriculum includes all the hand needlearts, as well.  More information to follow.

Route #2: Students from any college, university or school may choose to do an internship through PiPN.  Internships are coordinated through each student’s individual college.

Route #3: PiPN also provides a pathway for needlearts enthusiasts not enrolled in a college program, and not professionally involved in the needlearts,  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, visit TNNA.org and click on the PiPN icon.

Hosts:  It’s easy to register.  Now you can simply apply online by clicking here.

PiPN Intern/Apprentice Applications are also now available online.

The process:

• Interested host companies fill out the Host Application Form available on this site.
• Information pertaining to each company is posted on TNNAPiPNBlog.com and on TNNA.org.
• Students are recruited from colleges across the country through on-site visits, postings, career fairs, academic conferences, relationships established with college career counselors and internship coordinators.
• Students also complete the on-line registration form, submit a registration fee (if not applying to a PiPN Scholar Program), resume and a portfolio as appropriate.
• Host companies are contacted regarding appropriate candidates.
• Appropriate information is forwarded to each host company.
• Host companies may choose not to accept an applicant.
• Applicants may choose not to accept a position
• Host may interview applicant(s).
• PiPN Coordinator oversees process and final decision making
• PiPN Coordinator notifies applicants and companies of acceptance.
• Once the match is “made” host and intern/apprentice are responsible for establishing their own working relationship, including hours, responsibilities, etc. if not already determined.
• If either the intern/applicant or host company has any issues, problems, concerns, or other needs, they are encouraged to contact the PiPN Coordinator as soon as possible.