Shirley Pierson

Shirley Pierson

Professor and Deartment Chair

San Diego Community College Continuing Education

About Shirley

Shirley Pierson is an educator, program leader, and sustainability advocate serving as Instructional Chair of Clothing and Textile Arts at San Diego College of Continuing Education. With over 30 years in the textile and apparel industries, she leads innovative, equity-driven workforce programs centered on circular economy principles, including repair, reuse, and responsible production. She developed SDCCE’s Fiber Technology Lab, integrating traditional textile skills with digital tools to prepare students for sustainable 21st-century manufacturing. Shirley is the founder of the annual BIG MAKE event, connecting students, industry, and community through hands-on making and waste-conscious practices. She holds an MFA from San Diego State University and is a member of United Scenic Artists Local 829.

Shirley’s Presentation(s):

Aligning Mission and Market to Build Local Economies

10/21/2026 · 2:00 PM
Aligning Mission and Market to Build Local Economies explores how purpose-driven organizations, educators, and creative entrepreneurs can collaborate to strengthen local economies while remaining deeply rooted in mission. This panel brings together perspectives from Goodwill Industries of San Diego County, San Diego College of Continuing Education, a student-turned-entrepreneur, and a local retail operator to discuss how cross-sector collaboration and innovation transform social impact into sustainable economic outcomes. Through real-world examples and lived experience, panelists will highlight how education, creativity, and entrepreneurship can align with market demand to create meaningful workforce pathways, support local businesses, and build resilient communities.