About

Careers by Design guides Angelenos to high-demand and well-paid architecture, engineering, and construction careers while increasing racial diversity in these industries.

Careers by Design LA (CDLA) seeks to change the way we create, build, and maintain our environment by applying a green lens to everything from water strategies, energy solutions, and air quality to use of recycled materials and the way we view the circular economy. The CDLA program will help locally implement the Sustainable Development Goals and is part of the Mayor's Green New Deal to create an environmentally healthy, economically prosperous, and equitable future for Angelenos. We seek to achieve these goals by creating a pathway to professional services jobs within the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) sector for undeserved residents of South Los Angeles.

Participants will receive comprehensive training through the Los Angeles Trade Technical College (LATTC) Architecture and Environmental Design Program, as well as access to case management services, internships and direct placement opportunities. The program will expand the pipeline of diverse talent into the AEC sector and grow the number of Angelenos in green jobs. The program also offers professional development for educators.

Bridging the Skills and Employment Gap

There is a significant skills gap within the professional service jobs in the AEC industry. Our analysis shows that students graduating from trade and community college programs are not being trained in digital and soft skills requested by employers. This gap between formal training and on-the-job expectations can make finding a stable and well-paying career challenging, especially for those without prior connections to the field.

CDLA brings together technical subject educators at LATCC with career planning partners like Career Excellence Academy and Workforce Connections to bridge the skills gap. CLDA is committed to helping students land stable careers in industries that offer opportunities for upward mobility.

With a particular focus on piloting in South Los Angeles, this program has significant potential to bring new opportunities to a historically underserved community. CDLA seeks to increase the number of living wage jobs in South Los Angeles while also breaking barriers to address the lack of racial, ethnic, and gender diversity in the AEC sector.

Interested in Getting Involved?

AEC companies, community groups and individuals have the opportunity to participate in the program in several ways, whether as mentors, project partners, guest lecturers, or future employers. Fill out our interest form here