Industry Professional Advisors (IPAs) are artists, designers, and entrepreneurs who are here to support you individually, bringing their active careers into the coaching. Career counselors often haven't worked in the field—but our advisors have, so you can get specific advice on your design portfolio from a multidisciplinary designer, entrepreneurship support from a venture capital expert, or creative guidance from a practicing artist.

IPAs provide mentorship to students across CCA's academic divisions: Design, Architecture, Fine Arts, and Humanities & Sciences.

You can easily schedule appointments with our Industry Professional Advisors through the Handshake platform. Mentors provide individualized feedback, career inspiration, and professional advice during these one-on-one sessions. You'll get support on career planning and professional growth to help you find your own creative pathways. Beyond coaching, these professionals serve as mentors who can help you build meaningful connections in your creative field, introduce you to industry networks, and provide insider perspectives on career pathways that will support your success long after graduation.

IN THE HANDSHAKE APP:

1. Log into Handshake with your CCA credentials
2. Select 'Career Center' from the sidebar
3. Advisors' profiles (bottom right of page), resumes and portfolios are listed under 'Public Staff List.' Explore these pages to decide which advisor is right for you.
4. Click on 'Appointments', 'Schedule an appointment', select your educational status, and choose a category to book a meeting time with your preferred advisor.

For more information about our Industry Professional Advisors, scroll below to learn more about our team!

Reach out to us at CCApro@cca.edu with any other inquiries.