SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. (July 29, 2013) – The County of San Bernardino Workforce Investment Board announced today that executive director, Sandy Harmsen, was elected Chair of the California Workforce Association’s Executive Committee. Harmsen will be serving her second term in this role.

Harmsen has more than 19 years of workforce development experience and is currently the executive director of the County of San Bernardino Workforce Investment Board. Since taking this role in 2008, Harmsen has led county programs recognized by the National Association of Counties and the Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration. Among other honors, she has received seven awards from National Association of Counties, testified for the national legislature on workforce issues, and was recognized by the Inspector General for best practices in three programs.

“As one of California’s foremost workforce development experts, Sandy understands what jobs are in demand and methods required to train the unemployed for these positions. Her expertise is a driving force of the California Workforce Association’s success and we are very pleased to have her leading our Board of Directors for another year,” stated executive director Bob Lanter.

The California Workforce Association is a nonprofit membership organization that develops public policy strategies and builds local capacity to address critical workforce issues across California. The association represents Workforce Investment Boards throughout the state that are responsible for developing locally-based workforce strategies and solutions.

“Sandy’s extensive knowledge of workforce development issues and her ability to develop effective workforce programs have earned her national recognition,” said Janice Rutherford, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “Under her outstanding leadership, in one year, the County of San Bernardino trained 3,300 job seekers for high-demand industries and built relationships with 2,800 businesses.”

For information about the County of San Bernardino Workforce Investment Board’s no-cost programs, contact 1 (800) 451-JOBS or visit www.csb-win.org.

About the California Workforce Association

The CWA is a nonprofit membership organization that develops public policy strategies and builds local capacity to address critical workforce issues across California. CWA represents Workforce Investment Boards who are responsible for developing locally-based workforce strategies and solutions through a network of One-Stop Career Centers and other workforce partners. Membership composition is reflective of CWA’s local partnerships and collaborations with educational institutions, economic development professionals, chambers and business associations, as well as local nonprofits, government and community-based organizations that have a vested interest in workforce excellence.

About the Workforce Investment Board of San Bernardino County

The Workforce Investment Board of San Bernardino County (WIB) is comprised of private business representatives and public partners appointed by the County of San Bernardino Board of Supervisors.  The Workforce Investment Board strives to strengthen the skills of the County’s workforce through partnerships with business, education and community-based organizations. The County of San Bernardino Board of Supervisors is committed to providing county resources, which generate jobs and investment.

The Workforce Investment Board, through the County of San Bernardino’s Economic Development Agency and Workforce Development Department, operates the County of San Bernardino’s Employment Resource Centers (ERCs) and Business Resource Centers (BRCs). The ERCs provide individuals with job training, placement and the tools to strengthen their skills to achieve a higher quality of life. The BRCs support and provide services to the County’s businesses including employee recruitment.

Employers and job seekers who are interested in the Workforce Investment Board programs may call: (800) 451-JOBS or visit www.csb-win.org. Also follow us on: Facebook www.facebook.com/SBWIB; Twitter @InlandEmpireJob; and YouTube http://www.youtube.com/SBCountyWIB.