
The Future Of Work
Pasadena City College presents The Future Of Work, a podcast exploring the disconnect between education and workforce demands. Host Christina Barsi leads conversations with policymakers, business owners, educators, and students on how to close that gap. Topics include industry-education partnerships, equity, and expanding internship opportunities. The show aims to shape a better future for students and society.
Episodes

Explore Our Wildfire Recovery Webinar Series & Catch Up on our Library of Episodes!
The Future of Work podcast is taking a small summer break, with new episodes coming your way in the fall. We encourage you to take this time to catch up on any episodes you may have missed from our library of over 150 plus conversations and to check out our new webinar series focused on Wildfire Recovery. From everyone here at Pasadena City College, we are wishing you a fun and safe summer and we'

Bridging Recovery and Workforce with PCC’s Wildland Fire Academy & Mathew Barboza, Dean of Business and Enrollment Management Episode 170
What does it take to turn a crisis into an opportunity for community resilience and meaningful careers? In this episode of The Future of Work podcast, our host Dr. Salvatrice Cummo, talks with Pasadena City College’s Dean of Business and Enrollment Management, Mathew Barboza, to discuss the rapid launch and far-reaching impact of the college’s Wildland Fire Academy.Sparked by the urgent needs foll

Transforming Access and Equity in Healthcare Workforce Development with Van Ton-Quinlivan, Founder & CEO of Futuro Health Episode 169
How can we build a healthcare workforce that truly reflects and serves our diverse communities? Our host Dr. Salvatrice Cummo, talks with founder and CEO of Futuro Health, Van Ton-Quinlivan. Together, they tackle some of the most pressing challenges in today’s healthcare labor market—from meeting critical workforce shortages to designing inclusive, accessible pathways into stable, middle-class car

Making Recovery Equitable & Inclusive with Anish Saraiya, Director of Altadena Recovery for L.A County Supervisor Kathryn Barger Episode 168
What does true community recovery look like one year after disaster strikes—and how can we ensure that no one gets left behind?In this episode, our host Dr. Salvatrice Cummo, sits down with Anish Saraiya, Director of Altadena Recovery and Deputy Supervisor for Planning and Development with the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. With a background in civil engineering and public infrastructure

How To Build an Inclusive Workforce with Parina Parikh, Associate Vice President at Jobs for the Future Episode 167
What if volunteering, raising kids, learning on the job, and real life experience counted just as much as a college degree? In this episode of Future of Work, Dr. Salvatrice Cummo talks with Parina Parikh, Associate Vice President overseeing Job for the Future's strategic presence in California, about what it really means to create a workforce that works for everyone. Parikh shares how community c

How To Develop Soft Skills for Future Tech-Driven Jobs with Tara Chklovski, founder/CEO of Technovation Episode 166
What if the biggest barrier to success in tech isn't access, but mindset? In this episode of Future of Work, Dr. Salvatrice Cummo talks with Tara Chklovski, founder and CEO of Technovation, about what it truly takes to thrive in an AI-driven world. Tara unpacks why resilience and adaptability are just as vital as technical skills, how simulation-based learning can reshape education, and why women

How Women-Owned Businesses Lead Pasadena's Post-Fire Economic Rebuild with Lizzy Okoro Davidson, Director at Pasadena Women's Business Center Episode 165
A year after the devastating Los Angeles fires in January 2025, Lizzy Okoro Davidson returns to the podcast to share how the Pasadena Women's Business Center has become a key leader in rebuilding efforts—championing strategies rooted in equity, tactical support, and economic opportunity for women entrepreneurs. Together, our host, Dr. Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of the Economic and Workforce

Sustaining the Rebuild: PCC's Continuing Commitment to Community Recovery Episode 164
What does it actually take to create a sustainable and equitable recovery plan after a disaster? In this episode, host Dr. Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic and Workforce Development at Pasadena City College and co-host, Leslie Thompson, Director of Operations at Economic and Workforce Development at PCC, dive into the real, hands-on ways Pasadena City College is leading the region's re

The Nation's First Goods Movement Training Campus at Port of Los Angeles with Gene Seroka, Executive Director of Port of L.A Episode 163
We are diving into the evolving landscape of the Goods Movement with Gene Seroka, Director of the Port of Los Angeles. Our host, Dr. Salvatrice Cummo and Gene Seroka have a candid conversation about the challenges and innovations shaping the goods movement sector and how turbulent changes in trade policy, tariffs, and technology are impacting supply chain management. They also discuss the importan

Breaking Barriers: Reimagining Career Pathways for the Next Generation with Jesse Diaz Director of Market Development Los Angeles at Propel America Episode 162
For many students, alternative career pathways are the key to unlocking systemic barriers and breaking through rigid environments that keep economic mobility out of reach. Salvatrice Cummo sits down with Jesse Diaz, the Director of Market Development Los Angeles at Propel America to unpack how to build more equitable career opportunities. As a first-generation Latino college graduate and lifelong

Breaking New Ground in Kern County: Shaping Careers and Community with Chris Kelley President of Hard Rock Casino Tejon Episode 161
What does it take to introduce a brand new industry to a community? That is the challenge Chris Kelley, President of Hard Rock Casino Tejon, is tackling in opening the Hard Rock Casino Tejon in Kern County. With more than 20 years of experience in gaming and hospitality, Chris shares inspiring insights on Hard Rock's partnership with the Tejon tribe, the creation of thousands of jobs, and the impa

Building the Future of LA Transit with Ali Mir, West Regional Planning Lead, Senior Vice President Episode 160
What does it really take to transform the way Los Angeles moves—and who gets to design the future of our city's transit? In this episode of The Future Of Work podcast, host Salvatrice Cummo sits down with Ali Mir, Senior Vice President and West Regional Planning Lead (WSP) and a leader in regional planning, to uncover the stories and strategies behind LA's public transit evolution. From his own t

Revolutionizing Higher Education for Working Learners in a Rapidly Evolving World with Eloy Ortiz Oakley, President and CEO of the College Futures Foundation Episode 159
The demographic of students in California is changing and education must change with it. Dr. Salvatrice Cummo is joined by Eloy Ortiz Oakley, President and CEO of the College Futures Foundation, to unpack the challenges facing a massive and underrepresented sector of today's learners—students primarily over the age of 25 who are working at the same time as attending school. They cover the impact o

Community Colleges Leading Economic Resilience - Future of Work Conference Panel Discussion Episode 158
We dive into a dynamic panel captured at the 7th annual Future of Work Conference 2025, presented by Pasadena City College. Leaders from education, workforce development, and local government shared invaluable insights on building resilience, navigating recovery, and creating pathways to sustainable careers. Moderated by Leslie Thompson, Director of Operations - the panel featured insights from To

From Crisis Response to Workforce Readiness: Lessons in Regional Renewal from the Future of Work Conference with Mayor Victor Gordo Episode 157
After the LA fires, how do we move past emergency response and into building sustainable crisis prepared communities who know how to bounce back? At our 7th annual Future of Work Conference, PCC led the conversation with local community leaders and experts on rebuilding after an unprecedented disaster. In this special excerpt from the conference, Dr. Salavtrice Cummo, discusses firsthand insights

Building Resilient Communities: Insights Into The Upcoming Future of Work Conference with Dr. Salvatrice Cummo and Leslie Thompson Episode 156
With the LA fires so prominent in recent memory, one question looms large: how can communities move beyond immediate recovery to create long-term systems that withstand future shocks? Today Dr. Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic and Workforce Development at PCC, and Leslie Thompson, Director of Operations, sit down to open a conversation on building a framework of resiliency and collabor

Rebuilding Community After Disaster: What It Means To Create Solutions Rooted In Equity with Lizzy Okoro Davidson, Director of the Pasadena Women's Business Center at PCC Episode 155
In anticipation of the 7th Annual Future of Work Conference to be held on October 28th 2025, Dr. Salvatrice Cummo brings back Lizzy Okoro Davidson, Director of the Pasadena Women's Business Center at PCC and panel speaker, to touch on all the progress made by the center since opening its doors last year. Lizzy shares how the Women's Business Center, with the full support of Pasadena City College,

Future-Proofing Global Trade: The Next Era of Ports with Mario Cordero, Chief Executive Officer of the Port of Long Beach Episode 154
In this episode of Future of Work, Dr. Salvatrice Cummo speaks with Mario Cordero, Chief Executive Officer of the Port of Long Beach and former Chair of the Federal Maritime Commission. Mario shares how the Port pairs competitiveness with sustainability, why the Green Port Policy still matters twenty years on, and what it will take to move toward continuous operations across the supply chain. From

How Integrating New Media In Education Can Realistically Prepare Our Workforce With Rob Greenlee Founder of Spoken Life Media Episode 153
How might educational institutions begin to tap into new media tools to support and prepare students? Today we will discuss the importance of understanding the new forms of media being developed and how we can prepare our students to enter this new industry successfully. Founder of Spoken Life Media, Rob Greenlee, is here to fill us in on where education and new media should be overlapping. From v

Why Apprenticeships Are The Pathway To A Sustainable Future Workforce Episode 152
Why don't we hear about more apprenticeship opportunities for students? Today we'll discuss the development of apprenticeships and cover what goes on behind the scenes when it comes to funding, planning, executing, and regulating these programs, and why they're so hard to come by. Digging in deep we'll cover the barriers to apprenticeships and how we can engage and support local employers in order

Powering the Future: Rebuilding Resilient Workforces for Tomorrow with Tracey Pierce, Chief People Officer at LADWP Episode 151
In this episode of Future of Work, Dr. Salvatrice Cummo sits down with Tracey Pierce, Chief People Officer at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP), to discuss the transformative work happening within one of the largest municipal utilities in the U.S. Tracey takes us behind the scenes on how LADWP is navigating change, innovation, and workforce development during a time of rebuildi

Leading a Thriving Region for All: How the LA Chamber is Reimagining Economic Growth with Maria S. Salinas, President & CEO of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce Episode 150
What does it take to rebuild one of the most complex regional economies in the world, while also preparing for the 2028 Olympics and a rapidly evolving workforce? In this episode of Future of Work, Dr. Salvatrice Cummo sits down with Maria S. Salinas, President & CEO of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce, to explore how LA's business community is leading through disruption, rebuilding with i

When Goods Move, the Economy Works: Rebuilding L.A. Through Ports, Policy, and People with Dr. Noel Hacegaba, Chief Operating Officer at the Port of Long Beach Episode 149
When global tariffs go into effect, how long before the impact hits workers in Los Angeles? In this episode of Future of Work, Dr. Salvatrice Cummo welcomes back Dr. Noel Hacegaba, Chief Operating Officer at the Port of Long Beach, to discuss how one of the country's busiest ports is helping to rebuild L.A.'s economy. He unpacks how the supply chain crisis pushed ports from being practically invis

Building Belonging: How the YMCA Shapes Community Recovery with Victor Dominguez President and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles Episode 148
What if rebuilding a community starts with belonging? In this episode of Future of Work, Dr. Salvatrice Cummo sits down with Victor Dominguez, the first Latino President and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles, to explore how the Y is redefining itself as a Center for Community Well-Being. With over two decades of service, Victor shares how the YMCA responded to the Eaton fires, expanded p

Mindset Over Skillset: Preparing Students for an AI-Powered Future with Tara Chklovski, founder and CEO of Technovation Episode 147
What if the biggest barrier to success in tech isn't access, but mindset? In this episode of Future of Work, Dr. Salvatrice Cummo talks with Tara Chklovski, founder and CEO of Technovation, about what it truly takes to thrive in an AI-driven world. Tara unpacks why resilience and adaptability are just as vital as technical skills, how simulation-based learning can reshape education, and why women

Workforce, Reimagined: Building Inclusive Economies, Region by Region with Parina Parikh, Associate Vice President at Jobs for the Future Episode 146
What if volunteering, raising kids, learning on the job, and real life experience counted just as much as a college degree? In this episode of Future of Work, Dr. Salvatrice Cummo talks with Parina Parikh, Associate Vice President overseeing Job for the Future's strategic presence in California, about what it really means to create a workforce that works for everyone. Parikh shares how community c

Careers After Incarceration: How Entrepreneurship Drives Successful Reentry with Quan Huynh Episode 145
The school-to-prison pipeline is a complex and damaging system that disproportionately affects marginalized communities, particularly people of color. This pipeline refers to the policies and practices that push students out of school and into the criminal justice system, creating long-term impacts on individuals and communities. Quan Huynh, Executive Director of Southern California at Defy Ventur

How Educators Can Guide & Inspire Students to Thrive In An Evolving Workforce with Jasmine Star Episode 144
What will it take to prepare today's students for leadership in a workforce that's evolving faster than ever before? Jasmine Star, CEO of Social Curator, challenges educators and leaders at the Pasadena City College Future of Work Conference to rethink traditional teaching methods and embrace a paradigm shift. She underlines the importance of equipping students with the skills, mindset, and adapta

Contracts, Crises, & the Cost of Survival: LA's Hospitality Fight with Kurt Petersen, Co-President Unite Here Episode 143
What if the 2028 Olympics didn't just bring medals, but a housing revolution? In this episode of Future of Work, Dr. Salvatrice Cummo sits down with Kurt Peterson, Co-President of Unite Here Local 11, to explore the mounting pressures facing hospitality workers in Los Angeles, and the explosive opportunity that the 2028 Olympics might represent. Peterson doesn't mince words. From natural disasters

Championing Women Entrepreneurs in Male-Dominated Industries with Corinne Goble, CEO of Association of Women's Business Centers Episode 142
Understanding women entrepreneurs' diverse funding needs is essential and women's business centers play a vital role, especially in times of crisis. More than just financial support, these centers offer guidance, community, and critical resources to help women navigate challenges and grow their businesses. Corinne Goble, CEO of the Association of Women's Business Centers (AWBC), brings a personal

Empowering Individuals Through Hands-On Work Experience with Tim Aldinger, Vice President of Workforce and Climate Innovation Episode 141
How can work-based learning shape the future of education and careers? Tim Aldinger, Vice President of Workforce and Climate Innovation at Foundation for California Community Colleges (FoundationCCC), explores how combining real-world experience with classroom learning boosts talent development, retention, and industry collaboration. Initiatives like the Work-Based Learning Planning Pilot demonstr

Building a Sustainable Future: The Role of Clean Energy Economy Construction with Kate Gordon, CEO of CA FWD Episode 140
What does it take to build a clean energy economy? Kate Gordon, CEO of CA FWD (California Forward), believes it's about more than just new technology—it's about putting communities first, preparing for the emerging career opportunities, and making sustainability a part of everyday decision-making. Creating a greener, more resilient future requires everyone to play a role, from policymakers to loca

Driving Diversity & Equity in the Sports Tech Industry with Albert Basilio, CEO & Founder at Launchball Episode 139
What drives innovation and diversity in sports and technology? Albert Basilio, founder of Launchball, is merging these industries to create immersive experiences while championing inclusion. He sheds light on the barriers Latino founders face in securing capital and discusses the power of support networks in entrepreneurial success. Basilio also explores how community colleges and universities can

Rebuilding After The LA Fires: A Comprehensive Guide to the SBA's Disaster Support with Julie Clowes, Director, Los Angeles District Office, U.S. Small Business Administration Episode 138
How can small businesses rebuild after a crisis like the recent LA fires? The Small Business Administration (SBA) plays a crucial role in recovery; offering financial assistance, business counseling, and disaster relief. Many independent contractors and home-based businesses don't realize they qualify for SBA loans, but resources are available for a wide range of business types. Julie Clowes, Dire

Unapologetic Leadership: Driving Positive Change Through Diversity in Higher Education with Dr. Keith Curry, President of Compton College & CEO of the Compton Community College District Episode 137
What does it take to transform higher education and create lasting change for underrepresented students? Dr. Keith Curry, President of Compton College and CEO of the Compton Community College District, shares his passion for equity, detailing how initiatives like Black Student Success Week and Senate Bill 1348 are redefining what it means to support Black and underrepresented students across acade

Stay Ahead of the Game: Aligning Education with Industry Demands with Monique Reaves, Chief Revenue Officer of the Rose Bowl Stadium Episode 136
What skills will students need to lead the charge for events like the LA28 Olympics and the FIFA World Cup? Monique Reaves, Chief Revenue Officer of the iconic Rose Bowl stadium and the first Latina in an executive role at the Rose Bowl Operating Company, discusses the importance of aligning educational programs with industry demands to prepare future leaders. She advocates for incorporating creat

Building Tomorrow's Leaders: Transforming Education for the Next Generation with Jasmine Star, CEO of Social Curator Episode 135
What will it take to prepare today's students for leadership in a workforce that's evolving faster than ever before? Jasmine Star, CEO of Social Curator, challenges educators and leaders at the Pasadena City College Future of Work Conference to rethink traditional teaching methods and embrace a paradigm shift. She underlines the importance of equipping students with the skills, mindset, and adapta

Empowering Students for Competitive Industries: What You Missed at PCC's 2024 Future of Work Conference Episode 134
Pasadena City College (PCC) is enhancing its focus on aligning education with industry demands through partnerships, equity initiatives, and increased internship opportunities, particularly in the sports and entertainment sectors. Emphasizing sustainability and athlete mental health, these efforts aim to prepare students for emerging trends and address the challenges driven by the rapid growth of

Blending Community & Global Reach in the Modern Workforce With Julie Uhrman, Co-Founder & President, Angel City Episode 133
How can today's workforce be prepared to connect with a global audience while still nurturing real, local community ties? At Pasadena City College's Future of Work Conference, Dr. Salvatrice Cummo's conversation with Julie Uhrman, co-founder of Angel City FC, offers a fresh perspective on addressing this challenge. Angel City isn't just changing the game for women's sports; it's showing how a team

Tackling Systemic Racism in Education Head-On With Alysia Bell, President of UNITE-LA Episode 132
Connecting education and industry is vital for preparing students for real-world careers. Organizations such as UNITE LA bridge school-to-career pathways, focusing on equitable transitions for marginalized communities. Central to this is a strong commitment to equity and anti-racism, integrating these values into daily practices. Alysia Bell, President of UNITE LA, champions these efforts by promo

The Winning Edge: Multidisciplinary Skills for Tomorrow's Workforce With Matthew Cacciato, President & CEO, Los Angeles Sports Council Episode 131
The sports industry plays a pivotal role in shaping the future workforce, offering a range of opportunities for individuals with diverse skills. Matt Cacciato, President and CEO of the LA Sports Council, works to bridge the gap between sports and business in Southern California. With over 3,500 colleges featuring sports business curricula, there's a growing emphasis on multidisciplinary education

Building LA's Future: Small Businesses, Global Events, & Workforce Evolution with Stephen Cheung, CEO & President of LAEDC & President of WTCLA Episode 130
Los Angeles thrives on unity, innovation, and collaboration for economic growth. In this episode, we explore the intersection of major global events and local economic growth with returning guest Stephen Cheung, President of the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC), and the World Trade Center Los Angeles (WTCLA). As LA prepares for the 2028 Olympics and other major events, S

Why Strategic Storytelling Is the New Corporate Currency with Aleya Harris, Speaker, Strategic Storytelling Consultant, Bestselling Author Episode 129
In today's fast-paced and competitive business landscape, organizations strive to stand out and retain top talent. One powerful way to achieve this is through storytelling. By crafting narratives that resonate with employees, leaders can foster a sense of belonging, purpose, and motivation within their teams. Aleya Harris, founder and CEO of The Evolution Collective Inc. and creator of Spark the S

Redefining Higher Education: Making Knowledge Accessible to Everyone with Shai Reshef, President of University of the People Episode 128
Higher education is a gateway to a brighter future, offering individuals the opportunity to expand their knowledge, skills, and career prospects. However, access to higher education has often been limited by factors such as cost, location, and time constraints. Shai Reshef, President of University of the People, believes education is a right, not a privilege. By removing financial and geographic b

Unlocking Community Power: How Women's Business Centers Create Thriving Entrepreneurs with Nancy Swift, Executive Director at JEDI & CA WBC Network Chair Episode 127
How do we dismantle the entrenched systemic barriers that hold back so many in the business world? The answer lies in access to capital, information, and networking. Nancy Swift, Executive Director at JEDI, points out that women, in particular, encounter systemic challenges, like unequal access to funding and exclusion from critical networks, making it harder to succeed in business. This is where

The Future is Working: Addressing The Skills Gap in an Evolving Workforce with Shelley Hoss, Chief Executive Officer at Orange County Community Foundation Episode 126
Workforce development initiatives are crucial in preparing individuals for the ever-evolving job market. As industries change and technology advances, both employees and employers need to adapt to these shifts. But where does one start? How can new workers ensure that they're equipped to thrive in the future workforce? Since May 2000, Shelley Hoss has led the Orange County Community Foundation, fo

Women's Business Centers: The Silent Giants of Entrepreneurial Advocacy with Claudia Viek, Founder & Catalyst of the Invest in Women Entrepreneurship Initiative Episode 125
Women's Business Centers are a hidden gem for aspiring entrepreneurs, offering invaluable support in the complex world of starting and growing a business. These centers, often overlooked, provide essential support for women looking to start and grow their own businesses. Claudia Viek, a trailblazer in the field and the Founder and Catalyst of the Invest in Women Entrepreneurship Initiative has lon

The Need for Reform: Breaking Down the School-to-Prison Pipeline with Quan Huynh, Executive Director at Southern California at Defy Ventures Episode 124
The school-to-prison pipeline is a complex and damaging system that disproportionately affects marginalized communities, particularly people of color. This pipeline refers to the policies and practices that push students out of school and into the criminal justice system, creating long-term impacts on individuals and communities. Quan Huynh, Executive Director of Southern California at Defy Ventur

How Women Entrepreneurs Can Overcome Societal Barriers with PCC Women's Business Center Interim Director, Lizzy Okoro Episode 123
Despite leading 42% of new businesses in the U.S., women are 20 times more likely to be denied traditional business loans than men, with an even larger gap for women of color. Success for women entrepreneurs hinges on a supportive ecosystem, which Women's Business Centers foster by addressing funding disparities and resource limitations. Inspired by her immigrant father's entrepreneurial spirit, L

Empowerment in Action: Pasadena City College's New Initiative for Women in Business Episode 122
Empowerment is the catalyst for change–sparking innovation, growth, and community transformation. Pasadena City College is excited to announce the Women's Business Center, a new initiative designed to foster innovation and provide tailored support to women entrepreneurs in the San Gabriel Valley. Host Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic and Workforce Development, and Leslie Thompson, Dire

How To Overcome Student Imposter Syndrome With Jackie Javier, Director of the Freeman Center for Career & Completion at PCC Episode 121
Sometimes a student's own fears can hold them back from going after their dream career. The future workforce is intimidating and it's up to educators and career centers to support and help students navigate all of their doubts. Join in as host, Salvatrice Cummo, Ed.D. welcomes Jackie Javier, Director of the Freeman Center for Career and Completion at Pasadena City College, back to the show. They'l

APPRENTICESHIPS: A Pathway To A Sustainable Future Workforce Episode 120
Why don't we hear about more apprenticeship opportunities for students? Today we'll discuss the development of apprenticeships and cover what goes on behind the scenes when it comes to funding, planning, executing, and regulating these programs, and why they're so hard to come by. Digging in deep we'll cover the barriers to apprenticeships and how we can engage and support local employers in order

How Partnering with Education Improves Long Lasting Employee Relationships With Donald Bradburn, Director Of HR Strategy Design, Workforce Planning & Analytics At Kaiser Permanente Episode 119
What does the new generation want out of their work environment? In order to appeal to the future workforce, we must shift and reimagine how jobs function. Donald Bradburn, the Director of HR Strategy Design, Workforce Planning and Analytics for Southern California and Hawaii Markets, at Kaiser Permanente is joining us today to cover what employers can do to ensure their employees keep coming back

How Educating Existing & Future Workforce On Green Technologies Can Change The World With Jaime Nack President At Three Squares Inc. Episode 118
What would a true sustainable future look like? Jaime Nack, the Founder and President of Three Squares Inc., an award winning sustainability and environmental social and corporate consulting firm is here to dive into that very question. We'll explore the current trends within green technologies and how these trends impact the present curriculum in our colleges. The pivot to green technologies for

Becoming A Leader of Significance with Dr. Rocky Cifone, Executive Coach at The John Maxwell Team Episode 117
Everything rises and falls on leadership. But what are the mindset, intentions, and actions required to be a good leader, especially when failing up isn't an option? Dr. Rocky Cifone, Executive Coach at The John Maxwell Team, joins us today to discuss the philosophy behind good leadership. How do we assess our failures while celebrating our successes? What does it mean to be a leader of significan

Revisiting: Why Technical Education & Post Secondary Career Programs Will Change The Future Of Work With Jennifer Zeisler Senior Program Director Of Career Readiness At ECMC Foundation Episode 116
It is time to open up and diversify the education to career pathway! By developing and embracing new forms of learning methods, we can better serve students and families in less traditional or underserved populations. Joining us today is Jennifer Zeisler, Senior Program Director of Career Readiness at ECMC Foundation, a philanthropic fundraising service helping inspire and facilitate improvements

Revisiting: The Key To Becoming A Lifelong Learner, With Amrit Ahluwalia Executive Director of Continuing Studies at Western University Episode 115
When was the last time you learned something new? Today I'm joined today by Amrit Ahluwalia, Executive Director of Continuing Studies at Western University. You'll learn how support students and advocates for lifelong learning through detailed publications and access to a community of industry professionals. We'll cover what topics have been the most popular since the start of the pandemic and how

The Intersection of Education and Incarceration: Addressing the School to Prison Pipeline Episode 114
Could community college be a pattern disruptor for K-12 students primed for the prison pipeline? In this episode, host Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic & Workforce Development at Pasadena City College and Leslie Thompson, the Director of Operations, tackle the complex and often overlooked issue of the school-to-prison pipeline. Their conversation delves into the systemic patterns that

Revisiting: How To Tackle Workforce Inequity with Kome Ajise Episode 113
How can we actively work towards equalizing educational opportunities for all students? The goal of Kome Ajise, the Director at the Southern California Association of Governments, is to level the playing field for EVERYONE. Kome will share with us how SCAG is encouraging a more sustainable Southern California, and what their partnerships within the community look like. Through budgeting strategies

What You Need To Know about Workforce Training Episode 112
How do we help students earn more money and raise their quality of life? To start, it's about teaching them the skills they need to increase their wages and create generational wealth for them and their families. The key is workforce training. Host Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic & Workforce Development at Pasadena City College and Leslie Thompson, the Director of Operations come toge

Unveiling the True Voice of the Future Workforce Episode 111
How do we start changing the conversation around the future of work so more students can get jobs? To best adjust the current landscape, we need to create more safe spaces that open up the dialogue around what organizations and students need in order to reach their goals. Host Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic & Workforce Development at Pasadena City College and Leslie Thompson, the Dir

Confronting the Uncomfortable Truth: Why Students Are Struggling to Find Work in 2024 Episode 110
How can we do a better job at providing students with opportunities that fulfill them both personally and professionally in 2024? It all begins by selecting program funding intentionally and choosing partners and projects that make a real impact on a student's future and career path. Host Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic & Workforce Development at Pasadena City College and Leslie Thomp

The Number One Reason People Are Facing Homelessness Episode 109
What can we do to support the most vulnerable members in our society? In order to ensure the success of everyone, even students without a home, we must debunk the myths of what actually causes homelessness here in Los Angeles and throughout the entire world. We need to bring together the community, both employers and educators, to focus on jobs, childcare, transportation and other barriers that wi

The Synergy of Learning & Earning: A New Vision for Workforce Education Episode 108
How do we really put more students on the pathway to prosperity and success? It all begins by developing infrastructure that can bridge the gap between industry and education. Listen in as Host, Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic & Workforce Development at Pasadena City College shares a panel recap from this year's Future Of Work Conference. The panelists discuss how to develop pathways

The Future of Work Conference: Bridging the Gap Between Education and Employment Episode 107
How can educators join forces with employers to better shape the opportunities available for the future workforce? Tune in as Host, Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic & Workforce Development at Pasadena City College introduces the keynote speaker from this year's Future of Work Conference as he tackles that very question. Guest speaker Stewart Knox, the Secretary of California Labor and

Bettering Our Cities for the Future Workforce With Alfred Fraijo Jr. The Founder and Partner of the SOMOS Group Episode 106
Do you know all the ways your city's land laws might be holding the future workforce back? To uncover a positive path towards change for you and your community, Alfred Fraijo Jr. is here, he's the Founder and Partner of the SOMOS Group– where he provides legal advice to clients pursuing innovative urban renewal projects in the inner city and other sectors with emerging markets. Host Salvatrice Cum

The Power of Passion: How to Identify & Pursue Your Calling in the Future of Work with Dennis Rodriguez Director of Business Development – Western US & Design Build – Governments & Environment at Black & Veatch Corporation Episode 105
Attend the 5th annual Future Of Work Conference October 26th The path to success looks different for everyone. Host Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic & Workforce Development at Pasadena City College is joined by Dennis Rodriguez, Director of Business Development – Western US and Design Build – Governments & Environment at Black & Veatch Corporation, to dive into the fascinating world

Discover The Path To Success at The Future of Work Conference Episode 104
Change in our education systems can be uncomfortable but that doesn't mean we shouldn't embrace it. Host Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic & Workforce Development at Pasadena City College, and Leslie Thompson, the Director of Operations, dive into the exciting details of the upcoming Future of Work Conference on October 26th. Where did the idea come from, what new lessons can you expect

Creating A Collaborative Strategy For Educational Flexibility With Mayor Gordo Episode 103
How can community colleges partner with their respective cities? What new opportunities are out there, and how can we offer them to more constituents? Which incentives will help us expand job training and mental health services? Formal education is important, but it's even more important to remember it comes in many different shapes and forms. Host Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic & Wo

Discover What A Modern Apprenticeship Program Looks Like With Kelly Mackey State Director of Strategic Partnerships for the State of California Episode 102
It's getting harder and harder for employers to lock down good talent. This makes it more important now than ever to cultivate registered apprenticeship programs that create long lasting, and meaningful relationships with students who will eventually become incredible workers. Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic & Workforce Development at Pasadena City College is joined by Kelly Mackey, t

Part 2: Unpacking What It Takes To Equitably Implement AI In Education Episode 101
What is the best way for institutions to implement AI in the classroom? Hear from Leslie Thompson, the Director of Operations, and Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic & Workforce Development at Pasadena City College as they dive back into artificial intelligence and break down new research on the topic. They will uncover what it means to integrate AI into the system equitably and how to a

How To Better Support Students Where They Are With Dr. Brenda Ivelisse Vice President of Student Services at PCC Episode 100
Institutions will last long if they can find ways to adapt to students' needs, not the other way around. On both local and state levels educators can transform their services to align with student's goals and new ideas of success. Today, our host Salvatrice Cummo, will help us learn more about the Pasadena City College campus by focusing on the different student services available at The Student S

Overcoming Student Imposter Syndrome With Jackie Javier Director of the Freeman Center for Career & Completion at PCC Episode 99
Sometimes a student's own fears can hold them back from going after their dream career. The future workforce is intimidating and it's up to educators and career centers to support and help students navigate all of their doubts. Join in as host, Salvatrice Cummo, welcomes Jackie Javier, Director of the Freeman Center for Career and Completion at Pasadena City College, back to the show. They'll disc

How To Support Our Students' Career Goals With Assemblymember Mike Fong Episode 98
What is the best way to prepare students to get high-paying jobs in today's world? Today, Salvatrice Cummo is joined by Assemblymember Mike Fong to discuss California's higher education committee, what it does for students in the area, and how we can help students reach their goals. Together they'll cover the programs, bills, and policies that improve our systems that prepare students to enter and

The Key To A Successful Mentorship Program With Dr. Shannon LaCount Principal Product Manager at Mentor Collective Episode 97
Why don't more students have mentors? It is up to colleges and institutions to create spaces where students feel heard and seen by their educators and mentors. Our host Salvatrice Cummo, is joined by Dr. Shannon LaCount, the principal product manager at Mentor Collective, to learn how they help students in higher education reach their goals through advantageous pairings and mentorship programming.

How Education Can Serve As A Tool For Liberation With Dr. Francisco Rodriguez Chancellor of Los Angeles Community College District Episode 96
We have a long way to go when it comes to diversifying our workforce. One of the first steps is to create a space where students can learn from and interact with professors and mentors that represent who they are and where they come from. We're joined by Dr. Francisco Rodriguez, Chancellor of Los Angeles Community College District to discover how we can put leaders in positions of power who repres

Part 1: What Role Does AI Serve In The Education System Episode 95
Can we incorporate AI into our education system in a way that's healthy and creates more opportunities for students? When it comes to artificial intelligence, there are a handful of ways we can offer new tools for students in the classroom. Hear from Leslie Thompson, the Director of Operations, and Salvatrice Cummo, Vice President of Economic & Workforce Development at Pasadena City College as the

What The Next Generation Of Workers Need To Thrive With Abby Snay, Deputy Secretary, Future of Work at California Labor & Workforce Development Agency Episode 94
The future of work is changing faster than we know it. The amount of job opportunities available to students is expanding, constantly. Abby Snay, the Deputy Secretary for the Future of Work at CA Labor & Workforce Development Agency joins us to share the impact of environmental factors on current roles, and how she's uplifting and helping the California population to learn the skills they need for

Unpacking The Employer Engagement Process Across Community Colleges Episode 93
What is employer engagement and why is it so important for community colleges? Today, Salvatrice Cummo and Leslie Thompson sit down to discuss the impact of employer engagement and what it takes to create a program to encourage these relationships across the public and private sectors. Building a connection between employers and colleges is integral to establishing the pipeline for talent to enter

How to Become A Lifelong Learner in an Ever Changing Industry With Carolyn Hull The General Manager at the EWDD of Los Angeles Episode 92
When was the last time you learned something new in your career or field of study? In order to stay up-to-date with the changing work landscape we have to continue to upskill and learn new technologies in order to remain relevant. Today we'll discover what the Economic and Workforce Development Department does within the city of LA and dive deeper into how they're preparing for the future of work.
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