Staff

 
Kaylan Billeci Molina

Kaylan Billeci Molina

ACT Alumni Program Manager

Kaylan joined Opportunity Junction as a career counselor in August 2018. She has a bachelor's degree in human development from California State University, East Bay and attended Los Medanos College for her associate's degrees. Prior to OJ, Kaylan’s experience was in childcare, as well as in the nonprofit sector as a facility manager for a children’s crisis and respite facility.  In her current role, Kaylan helps participants, typically Career Counseling and Placement Assistance program alumni, with finding gainful employment. She updates their resumes, sends them job leads, and helps them prepare for interviews. She also assists with the Bureau for Private and Post-Secondary Education related accreditation tasks as needed, as well as helping the Administrative Careers Training  program staff during recruitment.  Her favorite part about this work is witnessing the real-life positive impact that OJ has on community members. Whether witnessing a client blossom with confidence after they’ve worked with OJ, or checking in with an alum months down the road to find out that they are still employed and doing well, she said it’s incredibly rewarding to help make a difference in someone’s life.  Outside of work, Kaylan likes to garden, watch TV, go out to eat, and spend time with her family and friends.

"My favorite part of working at Opportunity Junction is being able to help create positive change in the community I grew up in. I also enjoy working alongside passionate and dedicated individuals."

Dionne Blackman-Moeller

Dionne Blackman-Moeller

Healthcare Career Pathways Program Manager

Dionne joined Opportunity Junction (OJ) in January 2017 as a college and career counselor. She specialized in helping our transitional aged youth (18-24) complete their educational goals in partnership with Los Medanos Community College (LMC). She continues to serve on the Foster Youth Advisory Committee to address barriers and build a strong learning community for youth. She graduated from LMC years earlier with an associate’s degree in behavioral science and social science before transferring, like many of her students, to Cal State East Bay where she then earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology with a minor in human development. Today, she uses her workforce development expertise and 25 years of experience in healthcare to serve as our Healthcare Career Pathway (HCP) program manager . Her favorite part about this role is supporting her team in creating trauma-informed curriculum and policies that foster professional and personal development and growth in our students as they launch and navigate careers in healthcare. Outside of work, you will find her working toward a master’s degree in educational leadership and policy studies, caring for her many house plants and pursuing her lifetime goal of “tasting the world” as a gastro-traveler.

"I thoroughly enjoy working here at Opportunity Junction because it gives me an opportunity to make a positive contribution to the very community where I'm raising my own children. It brings me great joy and satisfaction to help give young adults a path to personal growth and self-sufficiency."

Alexis Bonn

Alexis Bonn

Director of Development

Alexis joined Opportunity Junction in 2019 as director of development. After graduating from Azusa Pacific University with a master’s of business administration and bachelor’s in psychology, Alexis honed her marketing and communications skills in the banking and construction sectors. With an ultimate goal of raising funds to support OJ’s programs, she currently manages our individual donors, events, marketing and communications. Her favorite parts about working for OJ are hearing the bell ring when an intern gets their first post-program job and seeing program alumni eager to pay-it-forward by becoming donors. Outside of work, Alexis can be found volunteering, doing marketing and communications consulting, enjoying the outdoors, and spending time with her loved ones and fur-babies.

Aly Brown

Aly Brown

Grant Writer

Aly joined Opportunity Junction in January 2022. She has a background in journalism, including roles as an editor-in-chief, reporter and copy editor. In fact, she first heard about OJ when editing one of our press releases! Now a proud member of our team, Aly is our grant writer and also manages our bimonthly newsletter and social media accounts. (So make sure to say hi on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn!) She loves working for an organization that’s making a difference in the Contra Costa County community and hearing the powerful testimony of people who have been forever changed by OJ’s programs. When not preparing grant proposals or interviewing alumni to write articles for our website, Aly can be found driving her three kids around the Bay Area for sports or – still – writing. (Her book under contract with Macmillan releases next fall!)

"When you watch those grads take the stage and listen as they share how Opportunity Junction has fundamentally transformed their lives, that's powerful. People who never thought they could are learning that they absolutely can. I feel so privileged to work for an organization that's helping our community overcome barriers in more ways than one."

Carmela Buenrostro

Carmela Buenrostro

HCP Alumni Career Coach

Carmela originally joined OJ in October 2018 as the first professional development instructor for the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program. She moved out of the Bay Area but was more than happy to return virtually as the Healthcare Career Pathway (HCP) alumni coach. She graduated in 2000 from Saint Mary’s College of California with a bachelor’s degree in adolescent/adult psychology. As the HCP alumni coach, she continues to work directly with the CNA graduates in achieving their dreams of working in healthcare. Carmela invites the alumni to participate in “chat” sessions and workshops and provides support while they navigate through career steps. Her favorite part of her work is being able to witness how a participant evolves from a student to a healthcare worker who brings “person-centered care” out into the world. When Carmela is not working, she enjoys participating in outdoor adventures with her family.

"The most rewarding part of my job is to see a participant grow in their skills and confidence. They enter the CNA program with thoughts that they never would have had the ability or means to acquire an education that would be the gateway to their healthcare career path. Through hard work, dedication and the support from our program, they become a vital part of healthcare. Some have moved on to LVN and RN programs and they remember that Opportunity Junction was there, by their side during the journey, to remind them they had the strength, spirit and heart to do it!"

Alana Chisholm

Alana Chisholm

Computer Skills Instructor

Alana has had many roles since she came through the doors back in 2011. She started out as a trainee and graduated from Administrative Careers Training (ACT) Class 36 with a few Microsoft Office Specialist certifications under her belt. When Alana was a trainee, she became a volunteer, teaching our computer basics classes. In 2014, Alana became Opportunity Junction’s staff tax site coordinator. During that time, she also taught for Liberty Adult Education, where she worked with Rubicon and Contra Costa Courts. Coming back to OJ full circle in June 2019, Alana became our full-time computer skills instructor for the ACT program. Outside of work, Alana loves spending time with her family, geocaching and being outdoors.

Ja'Nae Craig

Ja'Nae Craig

Executive Assistant

Ja’Nae joined Opportunity Junction as executive assistant in November 2019. As an East Contra Costa County native and alumna of the local community college district, Los Medanos College, Ja’Nae received associate’s degrees in business administration, accounting, and liberal arts. Utilizing these achievements to build on her success, Ja’Nae worked her way up from receptionist and multi-district administrative assistant for H&R Block to become a multi-unit office manager and tax advisor. With this in mind, Ja’Nae could not help that her heart has always been in her community and local community based organizations (CBOs). As executive assistant, Ja’Nae’s role supports our organization in many ways. She primarily coordinates meetings and schedules for the CEO and the Board of Directors, ensuring that board policies and procedures are implemented based on needs. She also provides wrap-around support to the executive team and dedication to the achievement of the organizational goals. Ja’Nae’s favorite part of our work is the amount of community advocacy and transformative training programs provided to East Contra Costa County residents – knowing the impact of change that Opportunity Junction provides, elevating  future generations. In her spare time, Ja’Nae loves to cook, mostly soul food with a specialty for fried chicken and collard greens!

Alissa Friedman

Alissa Friedman

Senior Advisor

Alissa joined Opportunity Junction in 2001, originally working as the project manager with the Administrative Careers Training program interns. In 2003, she took over as the executive director and served in that role until announcing that she would retire in 2023. She is currently serving as Senior Advisor during this year of transition. Alissa holds a bachelor of arts degree with honors in physics from Harvard University and a Juris Doctor from Berkeley Law School. Her prior professional experience was similarly diverse. Before joining the organization, she worked in software development for eight years, as an attorney for Morrison & Foerster for two years, and as managing partner of the law firm of Friend & Friedman for five years. She has been honored as Woman of the Year both by Assemblymember Susan Bonilla (2012) and State Senator Steve Glazer (2018). She particularly enjoys her continuing relationships with program alumni and is proud of her collaborations with partner organizations in the area. Outside of work, Alissa enjoys playing pickleball, writing and performing songs, being in nature, and spending time with family and friends.

"I get the deepest possible satisfaction from hearing 'I love my job' from an alum who pops in for a visit. I smile and reply, 'so do I.' My favorite times are when we're tackling a challenge, and each of us contributes ideas from our own perspective. There's the sense of shared purpose and camaraderie. From childhood, I've believed that this work represents the highest form of charity: helping others do for themselves."

Natalie Georgia

Natalie Georgia

Program Manager

Natalie joined Opportunity Junction in 2000, initially working as the program coordinator. She has served as manager of personal development for the Administrative Careers Training (ACT) program since 2004. She has more than 20 years of experience serving the community by developing lasting relationships. As a case manager to the trainees, she provides resources, support and coaching to ensure success. The manager of personal development is also responsible for leading information sessions and interviews for ACT applicants. Natalie said the best part of her job is witnessing transformation in action – watching an intern ring the bell and seeing the elation as they talk about their new job.Outside work, she enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, baking, and doing any activity with her precious grandson, whether that’s flying a kite or exploring. The beach on an overcast day is how she replenishes her energy, along with a good cuddle from her little dog.

"I love working at Opportunity Junction because I get to witness the transformative power of change every day."

Nicole Hall

Nicole Hall

Professional Skills Instructor

Nicole joined Opportunity Junction as a Professional Development Instructor in October 2020.She has  a background working in the medical field as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and Home Health Aide; she also received training as a Restorative Nursing Assistant. Her passion in the medical industry keeps on growing, and she is currently about to start her prerequisites for the nursing Program at Los Medanos College. Nicole works with our partner site, Mt. Diablo Adult Education, where she helps provide students with the life skills needed to obtain and retain employment as CNAs. This fall, she will be transitioning over to the Antioch Certified Nursing Assistant Program site, where she will continue to provide these valuable services to our community. Being an Opportunity Junction alumna herself, Nicole knows firsthand the positive impact our training programs provide in helping disadvantaged individuals establish financial sustainability in this uncertain economic environment. Her favorite part of the job is when she is able to help support families with our food bank and Loaves and Fishes food services. She said these wrap-around support services allow our students to concentrate more on their studies and a little less on some of their financial challenges. In her spare time, you will find Nicole out enjoying nature and any type of water sport. She especially loves to hike, swim, Kayak, and will soon be adding cage diving with the great whites off the shores of San Francisco to her bucket list of fun. Good luck with that one, Nicole!

"Now, I get to share my experiences and knowledge with those who share the same motivation for helping others as I do. What a blessing"

Melinda Johnson

Melinda Johnson

Vice President of Administration

Melinda joined Opportunity Junction in 2016 as the office manager and has been our vice president of administration since 2019. With more than 25 years experience in administrative roles, Melinda has worked in many different industries, including several tech startups and a handful of not-for-profit organizations. As the vice president of administration, Melinda oversees all of our finance, human resources, facilities, and IT functions. Her favorite part of what she does is assisting her clients – our staff – and ensuring they have the tools and support they need to be fabulous at what they do. Outside of the office, Melinda loves to read (especially urban fantasy), do crafty things with yarn, and play with her many, many cats and dogs.

"I love working for an organization where I can make a difference in the lives of others. Living in Antioch myself, it means a lot that we help others in my and neighboring communities to gain the skills and confidence necessary to find fulfilling employment."

Lynn Mendez

Professional Skills Instructor

Lynn joined Opportunity Junction in June 2022 as a professional development instructor for the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program working at Mt. Diablo Adult Education (MDAE). She first worked with OJ as a partner in February 2019 as a MDAE CNA instructor for the program’s first three classes Lynn was a CNA in the early ’90s for about five years, raised four kids, then became a medical assistant/phlebotomist. She went to nursing school and became a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 13 years ago. She has provided care in many facilities, including homes, behavioral health/mental health centers, prisons and schools.  Lynn is now working with students to prepare them for the professional aspect of their healthcare career. She also assists the LVN instructors with skills training and relief as needed.  Her favorite part of her job is first working with an amazing group of people that supports and empowers her. Second, is working with the students to help them become the best version of themselves. “Witnessing the bright eyes on day one and the confidence attained throughout the 12 weeks is amazing,” she said.  Outside of work, Lynn enjoys time with her children who have become four grown beautiful men who have given her four grandchildren  who now own her heart! She loves her husband of 34 years and three big old dogs whom she plays with every day. For fun, she enjoys biking, swimming laps and taking her scooter around the neighborhood!

Viviann Negrete Mosqueda

Viviann Negrete Mosqueda

Career Counselor

Viviann joined Opportunity Junction in 2021 after graduating from UC Santa Cruz in 2020. During her time there, she was a peer coach and a tutor, which gave her the opportunity to be a mentor for other students. Now as a career counselor, she guides members of the community toward stable employment. Viviann enjoys making an impact in her community and takes pride in being part of an organization that makes a difference. When she is not providing career services, she enjoys spending time with loved ones, being surrounded by nature, cooking, and watching new movies/shows. 

"Knowing you are making a difference and impacting your community in a positive way is what truly motivates me. I take a lot of pride in where I come from and in the work we do."

Hilarie O'Connor

Hilarie O'Connor

Manager of Professional Development

Hilarie joined Opportunity Junction in June 2020, during the early days of the pandemic. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and minored in psychology.  Following graduation, she went on to earn a master’s degree in psychology and worked in recruiting for several years. Currently, Hilarie is the alumni manager at OJ and performs outreach to support program graduates in all aspects of career planning and career counseling. Hilarie finds the role she has in helping program alum pursue career goals both rewarding and exciting as no one day is like the next. Beyond work, Hilarie can be found attending her four teenage kids' activities or taking walks with her dog and husband.

"I am proud to say that I work at Opportunity Junction. The staff, and the people we serve, all have in common the desire to work hard and help others."

Yemi Oni-Orisan

CNA Program Director

Nadya Poveda

Nadya Poveda

Program Coordinator

Nadya joined Opportunity Junction in 2019 as the program coordinator for the Technology Center. She holds a certificate in business administration in small business management from Rafael Landivar University in Guatemala and an associate degree in culinary arts from Santa Ana College. Before joining Opportunity Junction’s Administrative Careers Training program, she worked as a head pantry chef at The Top of The Mark in San Francisco for six years. After her husband suffered an injury at work, she joined our job training program to gain the necessary skills to work in an office. She completed the program as a member of Class 24 in 2008. Nadya is bilingual in English and Spanish. After completing her internship in February 2008, she began working at La Tapatia as an administrative office assistant, where she then worked for 12 years.  In 2019, Nadya had the opportunity to apply for the bilingual program coordinator position at the Technology Center. She was extremely happy to be back, noting that it felt like she never left. As an alumna of the ACT program, she was able to witness how this organization provides training and life skills that transform lives. She feels pride and satisfaction from working for an organization that aims to make a difference in the lives of others in a meaningful way. Nadya’s main role at the Tech Center is to assist our community by offering them classes, services and resources to obtain the new skills they need to succeed.  Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, going out to eat, and watching TV, especially movies, series, and food shows. She has a passion for cooking. It gives her the ability to be creative. She also enjoys being near the water as it gives her an immeasurable sense of peace.

Debbie Rich

Debbie Rich

CNA Instructor

Debbie joined Opportunity Junction in June 2021 as the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) instructor for the new program in Antioch. Debbie grew up in Antioch and has served the community as a nurse for 28 years with a varied background of bedside nursing, drug-abuse nursing and oncology/hematology nursing, prior to joining OJ. She has many years of experience working with youth and loves teaching her students! She enjoys seeing the evolution from a scared student on the first day of clinicals to a confident CNA after graduation. Outside of work, she’s a voracious reader – especially when it comes to political thrillers – and she loves serving in her faith community, walking/hiking, quilting and gardening.

"At this stage of my life I’m wanting to give back and am excited to have the chance to do so through Opportunity Junction. I firmly believe in helping people become self-sufficient and am excited to teach this CNA class to be able to accomplish that!"

Brianna Robinson

Brianna Robinson

President and CEO

 Brianna joined Opportunity Junction in 2006 first as a volunteer and then in 2007 as a staff member. After serving in various roles, Brianna became the vice president of programs in 2012. In 2023, she was promoted to the role of President and CEO. Brianna earned her bachelor’s degree in English from Furman University and her master’s degree in educational psychology and educational administration from Temple University. She is a former high school teacher, coach, and administrator. As the Opportunity Junction CEO, she is broadly responsible for strategic vision and leadership, fundraising and external affairs, and infrastructure and operations. Her favorite part about her work is seeing the various components of different programs come together for positive outcomes for our clients. Outside of OJ, Brianna can be found on a field playing softball or kickball or enjoying the outdoors with her family.

"I love being part of an organization that truly impacts our community. We serve an area in great need, and I feel lucky to work here with the most dedicated and caring people I know."

Shaun Samuels

Shaun Samuels

Business Services Manager

Shaun joined Opportunity Junction in July 2019 as a Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Career Counselor and quickly transitioned to business services manager.  He has more than eight years of experience in workforce development; he previously worked with Robert Half Office Team as a staffing manager/recruiter and with the Workforce Development Board of Solano County, serving as a placement/career coach. In his current role as business services manager, Shaun is responsible for creating and maintaining employer relationships and connecting them to program participants for job placement. Shaun’s favorite part about his job is helping our participants get out of their comfort zone to realize their potential, regain their confidence, and give them the gift of a job!  Outside of work, Shaun is a talented and recognized branding and portrait photographer. He has been doing photography for five years.

Janelle Stauffer

Janelle Stauffer

Program Coordinator

Janelle joined Opportunity Junction as the program assistant in 2019. She has several years of customer service and administrative experience. Janelle works closely to assist staff and our Administrative Career Training (ACT) program and manages our front office. She absolutely loves working with our participants, and her favorite part is seeing them come full circle when they complete our ACT program. She said it is an honor to be a part of something that has such a positive impact on so many lives. She enjoys being able to witness our participants gain the knowledge and confidence to find a career that they love. Outside of work, Janelle enjoys spending quality time with her daughter and being at every sports game to cheer her on. She also enjoys spending time with family and friends and finding new TV shows to binge watch.

"If you're not making someone else's life better, then you're not making the best of your time. Your life will become better by making other lives better."

Annabelle Villanueva

Annabelle Villanueva

Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator

Annabelle joined Opportunity Junction in February 2019 with several years of varied administrative experience. She always wanted a career where she could make an impact in her community. She first started working with a career counselor at Opportunity Junction to help her navigate the job market. The counselor then encouraged her to apply for the outreach coordinator position that became available with Opportunity Junction. Annabelle enjoys going out into the community to share with Contra Costa residents and other local organizations information about Opportunity Junction’s no-cost programs, which can benefit individuals and their families. Annabelle said she always wanted a job where she could make a difference, and working at Opportunity Junction has been rewarding. It is her passion to help people and see the outcome of our work: people getting jobs!

"I always wanted a job where I could make a difference. It is my passion to help people and it is rewarding working at Opportunity Junction. I love to see the outcome of our work: people getting jobs!"

Nolan Yee

Nolan Yee

Data Analyst

Nolan has been with Opportunity Junction as a data analyst since 2019. After earning a bachelor’s degree in chemical biology with highest honors from UC Berkeley, he worked for eight years doing research and development in analytical chemistry, where he applied statistics and programming to successfully tackle complex projects both independently and as acting technical lead for a team of scientists. This experience led him to transition to data science, which he achieved through intensive self-study and portfolio building. Shortly after, he began working with us, performing data analysis, web development, Salesforce development, and database administration. Nolan enjoys the technical challenges of applying machine-learning to gain insights about how we can better serve our community and creating automations and interfaces that make life easier for staff. Outside of work, you’ll find Nolan volunteering at church, cooking, making art or playing music.

 

    

Board of Directors

 
Linda Best

Linda Best

Former President and CEO

East Bay Leadership Council

Linda Best is the retired CEO of the East Bay Leadership Council, a private sector public policy organization and retired Executive Director of the Contra Costa Economic Partnership. She also serves on the board for STAND! for Families Free of Violence and the East Bay Regional Park District Advisory Committee. She received her BA and MA degrees from Stanford University.

"I feel privileged to serve on Opportunity Junction's board of directors. The training and services OJ provides our clients truly change lives in a positive and transformative way. It is so rewarding to see these individuals obtain a well-paying job, gain self-esteem, be able to support their families and give back to the community."

Carol Ann Barber

Carol Ann Barber

Owner

Carol Ann Barber Consulting

"I am excited to be involved with Opportunity Junction and serve on the Board of Directors. The organization's mission is a perfect fit with my passion for community service as well as my professional experience in job placement and recruiting. Opportunity Junction provides a foundation for long term success not just in a work setting, but also in life skills."

Maria Capote

Maria Capote

Management Consultant Delivery Analyst

Accenture

Maria Capote is a Management Consultant Delivery Assistant for Accenture: a diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) leader helping clients develop, execute, and adopt change initiatives. Maria is passionate about disrupting inequality, fostering inclusivity, and promoting allyship through action. She is also a 2017 alumni of OJ's Administrative Career Training (ACT) program. Maria left OJ to work for Future State, a consulting firm that became part of Accenture in 2021. She also holds an A.S. degree in Business Office Administration from Los Medanos College. Maria's volunteer service includes a term as the president of the Antioch Band Backers Association, as well as projects with OJ, Project Homeless Connect, the PTA, and more.

Raushanah Davis

Raushanah Davis

Audit Director

PricewaterhouseCoopers

Raushanah Davis is a licensed Certified Public Accountant and has 15 years of experience in public accounting. Raushanah has spent most of her career serving retail and consumer, not-for-profit and healthcare companies. Born and raised in the Bay Area, she graduated from St. Mary’s College of California with a Bachelors of Science in Business Administration majoring in Accounting and minoring in Economics.

"I believe in the quote 'opportunity plus preparation equals success' and that providing assistance and resources to help people find good jobs epitomizes that quote. Serving on the Opportunity Junction board provides me with the opportunity to work with individuals and an organization that shares in that vision."

Kevin Dilworth

Kevin Dilworth

Realtor

Coldwell Banker

Kevin recently concluded a 25-year career as an accomplished Information Technology leader supporting two of California’s largest employers Chevron and Oracle. He recently returned to the real estate profession where he previously owned and operated an independent brokerage for 11 years. Kevin has partnered with Coldwell Banker Realty to service the East Bay real estate market.

"I found Opportunity Junction back in 2012 at a Chevron Volunteer Fair. I was initially drawn in by the mission of Opportunity Junction, and immediately signed up to be a business math instructor. Once involved, I got to see for myself lives forever being changed. I have a passion for giving back to my community, and I’m excited to have the privilege of serving on the OJ Board of Directors."

Marc Gallo

Marc Gallo

Financial Services Partner

PricewaterhouseCoopers

Marc Gallo has dedicated his professional life to the use of technology to drive strategic visions, achieve business goals, expand products and services, tap into new markets and pursue operational excellence. He has spent 24 years with PricewaterhouseCoopers, currently as a Financial Services Partner providing digital and technology innovation to Banking and Insurance clients. Previously, Marc served as a Managing Director at BearingPoint, leading first their Financial Services Technology Delivery practice in the US and Canada, then their Banking practice. Marc began his career at Argonne National Laboratory after earning a B.S. in Computer Science at the University of Illinois and an M.B.A. from Lewis University.

Kathy Jones

Kathy Jones

Chief Counsel, Environmental

Pacific Gas and Electric Company

"I have long supported and admired the work of Opportunity Junction and am honored to serve on the Board of Directors. The organization provides training and life skills that transform lives by developing the foundation for independence and self-sufficiency. The staff is incredible - determined and dedicated to working with each participant to ensure success. I look forward to working with OJ in continuing its mission to fight poverty in the East Bay."

Young Kim

Young Kim

Senior Manager, Software Engineering

LinkedIn

Young Kim is a technology leader with 18+ years of experience. He has led software engineering teams at companies ranging from startups such as Nerdwallet to big names like LinkedIn. A Bay Area native from Hayward, California, Young has been living in Contra Costa County since 2016 and has a bachelor's degree in computer science from UCSD.

"As a child of immigrant parents, I witnessed firsthand how a hard work ethic and a strong support system provided me the opportunity to find success. Being a resident of Contra Costa County myself, I’m excited to give back and serve my community."

Kenneth Leung

Kenneth Leung

Technology Manager

Tipping Point Community

Ken is an experienced technology professional dedicated to supporting mission-oriented organizations and individuals. He has been the architect of six end-to-end Salesforce implementation. He first got to know Opportunity Junction when researching possible options for sharing referral information between nonprofits' Salesforce implementations.

Pamela Powers

Pamela Powers

Vice President of Training and Corporate Development

Bay Alarm Company

Pamela has had a long and fruitful career working with Bay Alarm for over 25 years. She is a senior business leader who believes that strengthening an organization’s performance begins with focusing programs on culture and people. Training is her passion, and seeing employees grow their careers and minds is her goal and commitment.

"Understanding your potential is all about your internal drive to be better. I believe that Opportunity Junction is committed to finding that potential in those that might not see it just yet in themselves. Their journey is about self-discovery, self-reliance and independence. I am grateful that they are allowing me to travel with them to assist in the voyage."

Tom Ramirez

Tom Ramirez

President

Tom C. Ramirez Construction Co., Inc.

Tom Ramirez is a retired Operations and Maintenance Supervisor for the Contra Costa Water District who is also an entrepreneur and business owner in the fields of construction and investment.

"I began supporting Opportunity Junction in 2014 when I was introduced to their work and attended their annual fundraising gala. I am excited to join the board of an organization of the highest quality that provides a successful path to a meaningful career and many valuable life skills for their students with continuing support for the alumni."

Renee Reid

Renee Reid

Staff UX Design Researcher

LinkedIn

Renee Reid is a Staff UX Design Researcher at LinkedIn with over 20 years of professional experience in various roles including Project Management, Customer Experience, Sales and User Experience. She is also the LinkedIn Campus Lead for the Black Inclusion Group BIG (an Employee Resource group (ERG), a Boys and Girls Club mentor, as well as a Professional Mentor with TechWomen, an initiative of the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs created by the Obama Administration.

Matthew Riley

Matthew Riley

Director, Head of Risk and Oversight for Portfolio Compliance

Blackrock

Matthew Riley has over 20 years of experience in the Investment Management industry. He has led a variety of teams during his tenure, most recently focusing on Risk and Oversight. Originally from Los Angeles, Matthew moved with his family to Contra Costa County in 2008. Matthew graduated from Loyola Marymount University with a Bachelors of Business Administration in Finance.

Donna Rucker

Donna Rucker

Site Director

Kaiser Permanente

Donna Rucker leads Site operations at the Delta Fair Medical Office Building. Donna joined Kaiser Permanente in January 2007 with over 20 years of Healthcare and Organizational Leadership experience. During her tenure at Kaiser Permanente, Donna has led various teams responsible for the planning and execution of strategic healthcare initiatives. Donna earned a master’s degree in Organizational Leadership from California Coast University and a bachelor’s degree in Business Management from the University of Phoenix. Donna is an enthusiastic education advocate who partners with Kaiser Leadership University and has taught courses in Emotional Intelligence and Service Improvement for more than 10 years.

Tara D. Sanders

Tara D. Sanders

Manager, Workforce & Economic Development

Contra Costa Community College District

Tara Sanders is the Manager of Workforce and Economic Development for the Contra Costa Community College District. She enjoys her career working in higher education, as well as running a small consulting company. Her professional focuses are in strategic program planning and systems alignment. This has allowed her to event plan for hundreds, make investments in today's youth, as well as be a part of community transformation simultaneously. As a liaison between colleges and companies, she develops strategic partnerships focusing in workforce development. These partnerships include alignment with county and federal workforce systems (WIOA), developing internships, community collaborations and event/program planning and logistics.

Justin Santiago

Justin Santiago

VP / Relationship Manager | Services

U.S. Citi Commercial Bank

"Opportunity Junction is an organization near and dear to my heart. The mission of Opportunity Junction is to provide those wanting to succeed the tools, resources, and training, not just for a single job, but for a lifetime of opportunities. I truly enjoy serving on the Board and have done so since 2020. I am so happy to be a part of an organization that is truly changing people’s lives by providing the opportunity to advance. I have personal experience with family members who have changed their career paths for the better because of this wonderful organization."

Matt Tillman

Matt Tillman

President

Plateau Data Services

Matt Tillman serves as President of Plateau Data Services, a portfolio company of Caivis (investors include David A. Steinberg and John Sculley). Mr. Tillman previously served as the Senior Vice President and General Manager for Zeta Global's Financial Services business where he had overall responsibility for managing the P&L of the financial services division. Prior to joining Zeta, Mr. Tillman served as the Head of Sales of Adchemy Actions, a business unit of Adchemy, Inc. Prior to Adchemy, Mr. Tillman co-founded FastFind.com, an internet marketing services company funded by Dan Gilbert (CEO of Quicken Loans and owner of the Cleveland Cavaliers) and sold to Bankrate, Inc. Mr. Tillman has also served in senior sales roles at Bankrate, Inc., GetSmart.com, a division of Providian Financial and Wells Fargo Bank. He graduated with a BA in Political Science from the University of California at Los Angeles.

Karolyn Wilhelmsen

Karolyn Wilhelmsen

Director of HR Systems, Analytics and Payroll

CSAA Insurance Group

"Over the course of my 20+ years in human resources I have discovered a passion for developing tools to support employees in meeting their career goals. I’m eager to work with such a like-minded organization supporting members of the community in meeting their personal goals."

Susie Martinez

Susie Martinez

Director of Liaison, Regulatory Operations and Engagement

Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E)

Susie Martinez is Director of Liaison, Regulatory Operations and Engagement at Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E). Ms. Martinez is an established Corporate Affairs, Marketing, Communications and Community Relations expert with a storied career supporting PG&E throughout critical and regular operations. Ms. Martinez is recognized as a quality-driven leader, advisor, and mentor with a passionate focus on community engagement and stakeholder influence. Ms. Martinez is known for developing and implementing programs that improve and innovate operations, communications, community relationships, regulatory compliance, cost savings, and emergency response events. Ms. Martinez has a Bachelor’s in Business Management from University of Phoenix. In her spare time, Ms. Martinez is a certified Zumba and UJam instructor at 24 Hour Fitness.

"“You miss 100% of the shots you never take.”"

RichCorcoran

Richard Corcoran

Vice President and Banker

J.P. Morgan Private Bank

Richard Corcoran is a Vice President and Banker at J.P. Morgan Private Bank in Walnut Creek. He guides successful individuals, multi-generational families and entrepreneurs across the East Bay area in taking a holistic view of their often complex wealth management needs and requirements. Before joining J.P. Morgan, Rich was a Director at Quantitative Brokers, where he devised algorithmic trading strategies. He also served as Director of Fixed Income at both Credit Suisse and Lehman Brothers in San Francisco, focused on serving the needs of institutional investors on the West Coast. Rich earned his B.A. in American Studies at Trinity College in Hartford, CT, and currently resides with his wife and two sons in Piedmont.

 

    

Advisory Council

Iris Archuleta, CEO, Emerald HPC International, LLC

Keith Archuleta, Founder/President, Emerald HPC International, LLC

Jodi Avina, Director of Recruiting Operations, CFOs 2GO

Jacqueline Bhagavan, 2015 Mrs. California, Host, Complexion Kitchen

Christine Bonifacio, VP, Program Manager, Wells Fargo at Work Program

Sandy Bustillo, Welfare-to-Work Manager, Contra Costa Employment and Human Services

George Carter, Economic Development Project Manager, Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development

Val Davis, East County Advocate

Osbaldo Garcia, Vice President and Branch Manager, Mechanics Bank

Sue George, Director, Center for Teaching Excellence, Haas School of Business

Hon. Steven Glazer, Senator, California State Senate

Hon. Federal Glover, County Supervisor, Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors

Laurie Huffman, Professor, Los Medanos College

Jim Jakel, Founding Board Member

Rick Kaiser, CPA, CFP, Temen, Kaiser & Cameron, CPAs, LLP

Christine Lambert, Regional Recruiter, Nelson Staffing

Angela Lowrey, Public Information Manager, Delta Diablo Sanitation District

Curtis McAdams, Relationship Banker, Umpqua Bank

Meryl Natchez, CEO (Retired), TechProse

Richard Pagano, State Farm Agent, Antioch Chamber of Commerce Executive Director

Sharon Pappas, Principal, Antioch Area Community Fund

Nancy Parent, Former Mayor, City of Pittsburg

Ricardo Perez, DDS, Owner, Cosmetic Dental Spa

Laurie Phillips, Diablo Valley College

Juan Prieto, Family Development Specialist, California Human Development Corporation

Deb Rivera, Senior Director, Operations, Educational Testing Service

Hon. Kevin Romick, Councilmember, City of Oakley

Jackie Seeno, Land Development, Community Relations Manager, Owner, Cyrus Land Investments, LLC, A.D. Seeno Construction Co. & Discovery Builders, Inc

Tonya Smith, Senior Communications Coordinator, Bayer, Opportunity Junction Alumni, Class 5

René Tucker, Employer Liaison, EASTBAYWorks-Brentwood, Opportunity Junction Alumni, Class 8

David Wahl, Manager of Workforce and Economic Development, Los Medanos College

Charlotte Will, Product Marketing Manager, Google

Alma Williams-Palmer, Procurement Coordinator, Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Opportunity Junction Alumni, Class 9

 

    

Alumni Council

Composed entirely of alumni of our Job Training and Placement Program, the Alumni Council has input into the strategic direction of Opportunity Junction programs and has input on activities for Alumni.

The members of the Alumni Council are:

 
Brittany Pierce

Brittany Pierce

Class 58

Chocho Win

Chocho Win

Class 59

Debora Carcache

Debora Carcache

Class 59

Destiny Corral

Destiny Corral

Class 62

Frank Kolsut

Frank Kolsut

Class 54

Lada Velichkov

Lada Velichkov

Class 40

Rachel Spangler

Rachel Spangler

Class 54

Shantavia Killings

Shantavia Killings

Class 62