Lights, Camera, Career! Matt Spangler Opens Doors for CMU Students

It’s 3 a.m. and Matt Spangler’s toddler was finally settling back to sleep after a late-night wakeup. As she drifted off, Spangler scrolled through LinkedIn, taking note of job postings and updates from Carnegie Mellon University alumni.

By sunrise, students in CMU’s Master of Arts Management (MAM) and Master of Entertainment Industry Management (MEIM) programs had a fresh batch of leads to look into.

Working odd hours doesn’t faze Spangler, senior associate director of academic, career and industry engagement, arts and entertainment for the Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy. Before being promoted in July, he spent seven years with the college’s Reidy Career Center, building relationships with students, faculty and industry professionals in Pittsburgh, Los Angeles, New York and beyond.

The MAM and MEIM degree programs are offered jointly by Heinz College and the College of Fine Arts. 

First-year students in the MEIM program study in Pittsburgh, while second-year students are based in Los Angeles. With responsibilities that stretch across four time zones, Spangler's workday often extends well beyond traditional office hours.

“It’s a lifestyle job and a hustle job,” Spangler said. “I'm not a typical 9-to-5 guy. I still work during those hours, but I don’t mind answering emails at 6 a.m. or joining a Zoom call at 11 p.m. The students are my clients, so I meet their needs as much as possible.”

Students describe Spangler as approachable, supportive and deeply invested in their success. By taking time to understand each student’s interests and goals, he offers advice that feels personal and relevant.

“The academic environment at Carnegie Mellon is demanding, and the pressure to excel in the entertainment industry can feel overwhelming,” said Daniel T. Green, senior academic director for arts and entertainment and director of the MEIM program. “Despite these challenges, Matt’s calm and supportive demeanor leaves a lasting impression.” 

Spangler sees himself less as a gatekeeper and more as a talent agent. He connects students with job opportunities, introduces them to industry contacts and helps them navigate an entertainment landscape that is constantly evolving.

“I like helping students find the kinds of jobs I dreamed about when I was growing up,” Spangler said. “Talking about movies and music and going to theater performances and art galleries is literally part of my job, so it's fun, too.”

A native of Spokane, Washington, Spangler’s path to higher education began in Pittsburgh public radio. More than a decade ago, as director of education and community engagement for WYEP-FM and WESA-FM, one of his duties was recruiting student interns.

“I really enjoyed visiting places like Carnegie Mellon, Pitt and Chatham,” he said. “That’s when I realized that I wanted to go into higher ed.”

A position as manager of employer relations at Chatham University helped him gain experience in the field. Still, when an assistant director of career services position opened at the Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy in late 2019, Spangler hesitated.

“I never thought I’d actually get to CMU because I put it on a pedestal,” Spangler said. “When I got here, I realized it was attainable and that I belonged. I love being part of the CMU community.”

His work goes beyond reviewing resumes and cover letters. Spangler has expanded his impact by partnering with alumni and employers to create more opportunities for students.

To connect students with mentors and industry leaders, Spangler helps organize seminars and company visits. He also assists with the Career Trek program, which offers networking events in Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., and New York.

“These high-impact programs give students direct access to alumni and employers across industries,” said Diane Taylor, director of partnerships and external engagement. “They provide more than career exposure. They offer meaningful experiences that help students build confidence and develop a stronger sense of purpose.”

Spangler also helped strengthen several career development programs. He’s assisted CMUniverse, which pairs first‑year students with second‑year students and alumni mentors, and Heinz College’s Internship Opportunity Fund, which helps students pursue unpaid or underpaid internships.

He’s involved with the college’s Career Academy, a pre-orientation program that covers everything from polishing resumes and LinkedIn profiles to understanding the job market and creating job search strategies. Instead of starting from scratch, students begin their CMU experience with practical tools they can use right away.

The results show up in the numbers. During the past seven years, MAM and MEIM students have achieved a 100% internship placement rate and 80% have secured employment within six months of graduation.

“Those are remarkable outcomes in two highly competitive and often unpredictable industries,” said Jessica Bowser Acrie, director of the MAM program. “Matt’s commitment shows in the personalized support he gives every student, regardless of their career goals. Whether a student wants to work in nonprofit theater, a global streaming company or independent production, Matt meets each one with respect, insight and a plan.”

When people think of entertainment careers, they often picture actors, directors and performers. Spangler helps students discover the many opportunities that exist behind the scenes.

Many graduates pursue careers in marketing, operations, fundraising, talent, production management, music supervision, video games and nonprofit arts organizations. Others work in education programs, artist development and event management.

“We might all be drawn to the glitz and glamour, but I'm dealing with the business side,” Spangler said.

That practical outlook also shapes the advice he gives students about their careers. While many hope to land their dream job right after graduation, Spangler encourages them to think long term.

“Most likely, you’re starting as an assistant or coordinator,” Spangler said. “The real return on investment often comes with the third, fourth or fifth job after graduation.”