The Education Council works to improve the future quality of your workforce by hosting quality educational programs through local partnerships. Meetings include a presentation by featured speakers in the areas of Education, Job Training, Human Resources, Community Programs, and updates from our local partners.
The Education Council coordinates interaction between businesses, local school districts, private schools and universities.
This council also leads our Teacher of the Month Program where we honor educational excellence by rewarding teachers with a plaque in their name and gifts from Chamber Members. This is an opportunity for Chamber Members (you) to acknowledge our educators while also giving a brief description of your organization!
This Month's Speaker: Colleen Smith
Colleen will be discussing workforce development in Ventura County as well as grants and programs that the Workforce Development Board of Ventura County oversees. Be sure to tune in and join the conversation!
Colleen's Bio:
Colleen Smith boasts over 13 years of dedicated service as an employee at the Human Services Agency with the County of Ventura. A year and a half ago, she transitioned to her current role as the Business Solutions Specialist for the Business Solutions Team at the Workforce Development Board of Ventura County. In this capacity, she fosters meaningful connections between employers and job seekers by spearheading employer outreach, actively participating in community events, and staying attuned to the evolving needs of local businesses.
Her tenure with the Human Services Agency has seen her involvement in various programs, including but not limited to Medi-Cal, CalFresh, CalWORKs-Welfare-to-work, the customer care IVR line, WIOA, STEPS-Youth, and most recently, the STEPS-Adult re-entry Program. This diverse experience equips her with a comprehensive understanding of community resources, enabling her to effectively support local employers and business owners in her current role.
Colleen graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from California State University, Northridge, and is a Certified Career Advisor accredited by the University of California San Diego Extension.
A lifelong resident of Ventura County, Colleen hails from Newbury Park and currently resides in Camarillo with her husband Sean, and their two children, Alivia (12) and Owen (9).
Consider attending this council if:
- Your business is education-related.
- Your target client market is young families or educators.
- You have a general interest in partnership with education/workforce programs.
- All Chamber members are welcome to attend.
