Howdy!

My name is Ryan and I just joined the guild this month, I'm located out near Spokane Washington. I'm fairly new to firearm engraving and have been doing some jewelry engraving for the last few years.

Here's my question: I'm active duty military (15 years now) and have the Montgomery G.I. Bill at my disposal for educational purposes... I would love to be able to use it to enhance my skills and learn new ones in the engraving world. I already own a small business silversmithing and cutting gems and do the odd engraving job on the side, and I plan on continuing after retirement in another 5 years. However, the GI bill will only pay for accredited classes.

I've been in touch with the folks at Emporia State and they were kind enough to offer a single credit hour for the GRS intermediate class. That would knock about 200 dollars off the price for me, it's not a lot, but every bit helps.

Does anyone know of any courses offered in the engraving world that actually carry accreditation? I know Emporia state has the only degree granting course in the world (BFA w/ emphasis on engraving I believe) but it would seem that there must be something out there from one of the engraving schools. It's a bit frustrating to have a decent chunk of money at my disposal, but not be able to use it to further my education in something that I really enjoy.

Thanks in advance for your help, I am in awe of the skills represented on this site and within the guild. My hats off to all of you and I look forward to every step I can take to bring my own work to a higher level-

Cheers!

Ryan

Ryan Skiles
10/30/2007 11:56:46 PM

Hi Ryan,
I think you are pretty much on top of it with the fact that Emporia State U. may be the only fully accredited course.
Have you also checked with the Gem Institute of America. They are in the San Diego county area I believe and have been around for years.
Mostly in the jewelry engraving field and may be accrediated because I think they go back before WW2 and the G.I. Bill.
Most of the short courses do not provide full accreditation.
The NRA summer college classes that I taught for years gave some credit to G.I's I believe but not the full thing.
Best of luck with your search and career.
Please post any accreditation news you discover.

Best wishes, John.

John Barraclough
10/31/2007 1:04:44 PM