Shawnee Mission Alumni
Establish Business and Job Opportunities for Future Grads
Kansas City, MO – The Shawnee Mission School district’s technical curriculum, which includes an Art Metals class, inspired a couple local alumni to pursue careers in the jewelry industry, and now they have come together at a local jewelry factory and concierge bridal ring boutique, Waldo Jewelers. Michael Marentes, Owner and CEO, says “I was inspired by Shawnee Mission East teacher Chuck Crawford to go into the jewelry business. I owe my nineteen-year career, in part, to my exposure to the trade in high school”. Marentes recently partnered with fellow Shawnee Mission East Graduate Jeffrey Penland, who serves as Waldo Jewelers Vice President of Manufacturing. They also recruited Crystal Ramirez, a Shawnee Mission West graduate, and jewelry designer in her own right, to serve as Shop Manager and mentor to the junior jewelers on the team. “I was inspired by the Art Metals class to pursue metalsmithing at Johnson County Community College, and after working in the corporate jewelry space I was excited to team up with Waldo Jewelers and serve the local community that was so supportive in my success”. In addition, Waldo Jewelers is mentoring a current Sophomore at SME. By offering part time employment and paid training to students, Michael hopes to help others also find success in a booming industry that lacks a steady stream of talented craftspeople. Marentes adds, “The futures of our industry, and so many others, are directly tied to schools offering these technical programs and exposing kids to other opportunities. This is especially true when there are opportunities that create balance and capitalize on the creative process. We all love to come to work every day!”.
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Waldo Jewelers is a locally owned and operated jewelry manufacturer and boutique specializing in bespoke engagement and wedding rings made in house from start to finish. Serving the Kansas City community for over 14 years, Waldo Jeweler’s skilled employees use state of the art technology and equipment to create one-of-a-kind engagement rings and other jewelry. Visit their retail boutique and factory at 7142 Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO, or visit www.waldojewelers.com for more information.