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PODCAST · business

The Future Of Work

by Pasadena City College

Pasadena City College presents The Future Of Work. We are leading the conversation of how to begin closing the gap between what our students are learning and what the demands of the workforce will be once they enter.We'll be talking to policy makers, business owners, educators and the students we are advocating for. We'll explore topics like how education can partner with industry, how to be more equitable and how to attain one of our highest goals, more internships. This conversation impacts the future of all of us.

Publisher-supplied feed metadata · PodParley refreshed Oct 13, 2026 · Source feed

Episodes

  1. How EWD Is Creating A More Responsive Approach to Workforce, Rebuilding & Recovery Episode 171

    After seven years of bringing educators, employers, policymakers, and community members together at the annual in-person Future of Work Conference hosted by our department of Economic and Workforce Development at Pasadena City College, this year we decided to move toward a recurring webinar…

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  2. 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...

  3. 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...

  4. 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...

  5. 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…

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  6. 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,...

  7. 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...

  8. 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...

  9. 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...

  10. 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…

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  11. 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...

  12. 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...

  13. 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…

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  14. 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...

  15. 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...

  16. 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...

  17. 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,...

  18. 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…

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  19. 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...

  20. 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...

  21. 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...

  22. 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...

  23. 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…

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  24. 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...

  25. 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…

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  26. 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...

  27. 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,...

  28. 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…

    more
  29. 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...

  30. 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...

  31. 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...

  32. 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,...

  33. 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…

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  34. 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...

  35. 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...

  36. 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...

  37. 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...

  38. 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...

  39. 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…

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  40. 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...

  41. 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...

  42. 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...

  43. 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...

  44. 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...

  45. 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…

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  46. 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…

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  47. 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…

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  48. 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…

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  49. 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…

    more
  50. 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...

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Pasadena City College presents The Future Of Work. We are leading the conversation of how to begin closing the gap between what our students are learning and what the demands of the workforce will be once they enter.We'll be talking to policy makers, business owners, educators and the students we are advocating for. We'll explore topics like how education can partner with industry, how to be more equitable and how to attain one of our highest goals, more internships. This conversation impacts the future of all of us.

HOSTED BY

Pasadena City College

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does The Future Of Work have?

The Future Of Work currently has 183 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is The Future Of Work about?

Pasadena City College presents The Future Of Work. We are leading the conversation of how to begin closing the gap between what our students are learning and what the demands of the workforce will be once they enter.We'll be talking to policy makers, business owners, educators and the students we...

How often does The Future Of Work release new episodes?

The Future Of Work publishes regularly with 183 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.

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You can listen to The Future Of Work on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts The Future Of Work?

The Future Of Work is created and hosted by Pasadena City College.
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