Community colleges play a critical role in training the creative economy workforce, it is becoming increasingly difficult for higher education institutions to align their programs with industry needs as labor demand evolves at a breakneck pace. Los Angeles-based Mt. San Antonio College (Mt. SAC) faced such challenges in developing career pathways that would effectively prepare students for emerging and diversifying creative job opportunities. Moreover, the college needed to address the labor and skills shortages in key creative occupations, particularly as automation and digitalization continue to reshape the industry.

CVL Economics conducted an in-depth analysis of the Los Angeles creative economy, focusing on the occupational structure, growth trends, and skill demands within the region. We worked closely with Mt. SAC to assess the current educational offerings and identify training gaps. Our approach involved developing a comprehensive labor market report that highlighted the potential for growth in creative occupations in areas such as digital interface design, media and communications, and performance arts. This report provided strategic recommendations for the creation of new programs and certifications that would align with the demands of the creative economy, ensuring that Mt. SAC students are well-equipped for the future workforce.