Bottega Veneta will hire 50 students next year

Bottega Veneta, a brand that has always been celebrated for its commitment to traditional craftsmanship, takes this dedication to a new level this October with the inauguration of the Labor et Ingenium Academy. This prestigious academy is not just a school; it is a testament to the brand's indelible devotion to the art of craftsmanship and a beacon for cultivating the talents of the future. Named in honor of the brand's core values ("Labor et Ingenium" which translates to "Craftsmanship and Creativity") this academy is poised to redefine the way craft skills are passed down from one generation to the next. Underlying this initiative is Bottega Veneta's deep connection to the traditional "bottega" or workshop, where a collective of master craftsmen honed their skills and shared their knowledge with apprentices, ensuring the preservation of techniques handed down through time. This rich tradition inspired the establishment of the Labor et Ingenium Academy, a place where craftsmanship and creativity intertwine to shape the future.

The Labor et Ingenium Academy operates in two key locations: the Bottega Veneta atelier in Montebello Vicentino and a dedicated space at the brand's production site in Povolaro Dueville. These locations serve as permanent workshops, where students will gather to learn from master craftsmen through a wide range of educational activities, workshops and courses. Central to the academy's mission is the training of the next generation of artisans. Each year, the Labor et Ingenium Academy is ready to welcome and train 50 students who can count on guaranteed employment with Bottega Veneta upon completion of their courses. This program is led by a community of five Bottega Veneta master artisans who promote the collective ethos that has been at the heart of the company since its founding in 1966. In addition to the core training program, the academy also offers refresher and retraining opportunities for existing Bottega Veneta employees. It also collaborates with regional partners to promote the creativity and dynamism of the Veneto region, all while preserving the prestigious "Made in Italy."

Accademia Labor et Ingenium's first external collaboration began yesterday, marking a significant milestone. This collaboration with the Iuav University of Venice offers a seven-week bespoke masterclass, "The Creative Artisan Process: Product Design and Development Course for Handbags." Eight talented students selected from the IUAV network will undertake a unique learning journey that combines classroom, virtual and atelier experiences. This masterclass offers a comprehensive curriculum, including prototyping and production of different bag shapes and finishes. It provides insights into the luxury industry and develops professional communication and relationship-building skills. Ruggero Negretto, one of Bottega Veneta's most senior employees, leads this masterclass, continuing the tradition of transferring skills, values and corporate culture of the brand's original artisans.