The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce has announced a new workforce development initiative called “The Paradigm Shift,” launched in partnership with The Broad Foundation and the CEO Council. The program aims to change how employers and educators work together to train, recruit, and retain talent in the Los Angeles region.
The first phase of the initiative will focus on addressing critical shortages in healthcare positions. Efforts are underway to coordinate employer hiring needs with educator training capacity for five high-demand roles: Imaging Technologists, Surgical Technologists, Sterile Processing Technicians, Nursing Assistants/EMTs, and Data Scientists. Partners are working to match open jobs with available training opportunities, with student enrollment expected to begin in late 2026.
“This is the kind of bold, coordinated action our region needs,” said Maria S. Salinas, President & CEO of the L.A. Area Chamber. “The Paradigm Shift will help Angelenos access high-quality careers while ensuring employers can fill mission-critical jobs.”
Devorah Lieberman, President Emerita of the University of La Verne, is leading the initiative. Peter Kaufman, formerly with McKinsey, serves as Initiative Manager. The Paradigm Shift was recently featured at the Business & Education Innovation Summit.
The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce represents organizations from various sectors across the region and works to promote an inclusive and competitive economy.
