The documentary on the intersection of education and economic innovation debuts May 18 on KLCS-PBS
IRVINE, Calif. (May 14, 2026) — The Orange County Community Foundation (OCCF), one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing community foundations, and OC World, an award-winning multimedia nonprofit, are thrilled to announce today the broadcast premiere of “Earn & Learn: Tomorrow’s Innovation Economy” on Monday, May 18 at 5 pm on KLCS-PBS. This new documentary focuses on the intersection of education and economic innovation, spotlighting programs that equip our youth with the skills needed for tomorrow’s workforce.
Program highlights include:
- Jobs outlook: Wallace Walrod, a leading Orange County economist, discusses where the jobs of the future lie, the greatest opportunities for improving economic mobility for Orange County’s workforce, and the challenges along the way. Walrod points to the increasing demand for jobs that don’t require college degrees in the healthcare and manufacturing sectors and innovative programs to help meet this demand.
- Looking skyward for drone technology careers: A spotlight on Fullerton College Drone Lab shows how hands-on training, industry certifications, and direct workforce pathways prepare students for high-demand careers in the rapidly growing drone and autonomous systems industry by combining classroom instruction and training with employer partners. With 11 specialized certificate programs, students gain practical technical skills aligned with real-world employer needs. Jay Seidel, director of the Drone Lab, discusses the experiential learning through industry-grade equipment, live field operations, and partnerships with public safety agencies, utilities, aerospace companies, and technology organizations throughout Southern California. Internships and apprenticeships with the program’s industry partners in the region help students prepare for employment.
- Forging a pathway to healthcare jobs: A feature on the Healthcare Academy, an innovative program by High School Inc. Academies Foundation at Valley High School in Santa Ana, shows how hands-on learning opportunities, industry internships and mentorships, certifications, and industry competitions help students build both technical and professional skills for high-demand jobs such as medical assistants and dental assistants—stepping stones to healthcare careers. Felix Lugo, the foundation’s executive director, discusses how all five academies at the high school—Culinary & Hospitality, Automotive, New Media, Global Business, and Engineering & Computer Science—play a transformative role, improving student engagement, expanding career opportunities, and contributing to a dramatic increase in graduation rates. The academies are among the most inspiring educational success stories in the city.
- Supplying the manufacturing jobs pipeline: A feature on the Manufacturing Technology program at Santa Ana College illustrates how students gain skills in working with the latest Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines and computer-controlled machine tools that prepare them for apprenticeships and jobs in manufacturing companies. Alexander Zonin, professor at the college, discusses how industry partnerships and the program’s broad manufacturing foundation—which includes setup and process optimization, blueprint reading, math, troubleshooting, and a production mindset—helps graduates get ready to contribute on real production teams from day one. With Santa Ana sitting at the heart of Orange County’s manufacturing sector, graduates are well-positioned for in-demand roles across aerospace, automotive, medical device, and other manufacturing industries.
The inaugural episode, “Child and Youth Mental Health: A Hidden Epidemic,” aired on KLCS-PBS on March 23, setting a powerful tone for the series. This episode examines startling local data, highlights real-world solutions in action, and presents heartfelt stories of resilience and healing from local youth and families tackling mental health issues. These narratives underscore the importance of local nonprofit resources in providing critical support.
The second episode, “Earn & Learn: Tomorrow’s Innovation Economy,” is set to air on May 18. This episode will explore the intersection of education and economic innovation, spotlighting programs that equip our youth and young adults with the skills needed for tomorrow’s workforce.
The remaining four episodes will focus on:
- Educational Access: Breaking barriers and bridging gaps to educational success
- Environmental Stewardship: Protecting and preserving Orange County’s unique ecosystems
- Women’s Health: Addressing health challenges across life stages
- Community Power Building: Advancing collective action and community voices
“The Power of Community series has provided a unique opportunity to explore areas of need within Orange County and showcase the stellar work of our nonprofit sector in addressing these complex issues,” said Shelley Hoss, CEO of the Orange County Community Foundation. “The ‘Earn & Learn’ episode leads the way in spotlighting valuable training programs critical to Orange County’s thriving future.”
OCCF and OC World invite everyone to explore “The Power of Community,” a series that promises to inspire change and elevate the voices of those making a difference. By sharing stories of perseverance and promise, this series serves as a catalyst for dialogue and action, encouraging audiences to connect with local efforts that are making a meaningful and lasting difference.
For more information on “The Power of Community” series, please visit oc-cf.org/power-of-community.
About Orange County Community Foundation
The Orange County Community Foundation (OCCF) transforms our community’s heartfelt intention into greater impact for good by working with local donors and nonprofit partners as an expert advisor and innovator. We serve as a resource for individual and family philanthropists, facilitate grant and scholarship programs, and lead community-based initiatives. OCCF’s Vision 2030, a five-year strategic plan, is designed to amplify giving and support donors’ philanthropic goals as well as address critical needs in Orange County. Since 1989, OCCF has granted more than $1.25 billion in Orange County, across the country, and around the world. For more information, visit oc-cf.org or call (949) 553-4202. Be a part of our conversation on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram. View OCCF’s 2025 annual report here.
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Media Contact
Lisa Liddane
lliddane@cornerstonecomms.com
(714) 656-5002
