The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce announced on Mar. 23 the launch of A Paradigm Shift, an employer-led workforce initiative aimed at connecting Angelenos with high-demand careers and addressing critical talent gaps in the region.
As the local economy continues to evolve, employers in key sectors are facing challenges filling essential roles. The new initiative brings together healthcare providers, educators, and workforce partners to better align training programs with real-world job demands. Supported by The Eli and Edythe Broad Foundation, it seeks to create more direct pathways into quality jobs for residents.
“This initiative is about unlocking opportunity for Angelenos and aligning our workforce with the demands of a high growth sector,” said Maria S. Salinas, President and CEO of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce. “By forging stronger partnerships between employers and educators, we’re not just preparing for quality jobs, more importantly, we are creating clear, intentional pathways to high-quality careers and ensuring Los Angeles remains competitive, resilient, and built for long-term growth.”
The program’s first phase focuses on healthcare due to urgent staffing needs. Healthcare organizations such as Cedars-Sinai, AltaMed, Adventist Health White Memorial, Kaiser Permanente and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles are collaborating with the Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) to design short-term training programs—lasting six months to one year—that prepare participants for immediate employment in roles like nursing assistants or surgical technologists.
“Community colleges are uniquely positioned to serve as engines of opportunity,” said Dr. Alberto Román, Chancellor of LACCD. “This partnership strengthens our ability to connect students with meaningful careers while meeting the workforce needs of our region.”
Raul A. Anaya, President of Bank of America – Greater Los Angeles and Chair of The CEO Council’s Workforce Development Committee said: “Employers know best what skills are needed in today’s economy… By working directly with educators we can help ensure that training programs lead to real opportunities and long-term careers.”
Philanthropic leaders also praised this collaborative approach between business groups and educational institutions. Porsha Cropper from The Broad Foundation said: “For too many Angelenos…the route from school to a good job is still fragmented… This effort will align employer needs with student ambition…”
Kaiser Permanente Regional President Michelle Gaskill-Hames highlighted the importance: “Now more than ever it is critical that we build a strong…pipeline of healthcare professionals who are prepared…” Zoila D. Escobar from AltaMed added that these pathways can help communities achieve lasting economic stability.
The announcement marks only the beginning phase; program design will be finalized while recruiting participants for initial cohorts begins soon.
