K12 Strong Workforce Program

Michelle Wong is the K-12 SWP Coordinator for the State Center Community College Region. She entered this role with over 8 years of industry experience in Ed Tech and Video Production and 5 years of CTE Advisory board experience. She is passionate to support the important work of K-12 SWP and utilize her skills in design thinking, facilitation and project management gained in industry.

Yeni was previously employed for 18 years in corrections as a Correctional Counselor and as the Re-Entry Coordinator at Taft Correctional Institution. She has a passion for helping others because of her experience in helping prepare inmates to reintegrate into society and helping them obtain the skills and resources needed to succeed. As a Bilingual Instructional Assistant, she has experienced the positive impact made on students facing educational disadvantages due to language barriers and the lack of support at home. Being a K12 Pathway Coordinator allows Yeni to have an even more significant impact, assuring every student receives the support and necessary tools to meet their educational and career goals.

Tiffani began her twenty-three year career in education as a middle school teacher and instructional coach. For the past fifteen years, Tiffani has served as a school administrator across elementary, middle, and high school levels. This experience across all age groups has given her a comprehensive understanding of the educational journey and the developmental milestones students achieve at each stage. As a new K12 Pathway Coordinator, Tiffani is committed to supporting students in discovering their passions, honing practical skills, and preparing for meaningful careers. In this role, Tiffani aims to bridge the gap between education and workforce needs by developing opportunities that empower students to succeed in high-demand fields.

Kenny Lopez has over nine years of experience serving students in education. He worked as a Dual Enrollment Coordinator where he helped launch career pathways across the Central Valley. Kenny is passionate about providing educational access to students in rural communities to help close the college achievement gap. Outside of work, Kenny enjoys traveling, exercising and spending time with his family and friends.

Kevin Fox is the K12 Strong Workforce Pathway Coordinator for the Yosemite Community College District, hosted by Stanislaus County Office of Education (SCOE). Kevin has 25 years of experience in print and web marketing, and public communications for companies across diverse industries. Most recently Kevin was a Director at SCOE overseeing CTE, new pathways, and adult CTE education. Kevin was part of the team that launched the award-winning VOLT Institute. Kevin is passionate about Central Valley Communities and the people who live here. His professional background includes experience in agriculture, construction, photography, filmmaking, radio, podcasting, and marketing communications. Before entering the education sector, Kevin was the afternoon drive time host at Power Talk 1360 AM, an iHeart Radio station. Kevin understands the preparation required for high-skill, high-demand jobs, and as a manager Kevin creates an energetic team environment were members and pathways can achieve the greatest results together.

Arnie brings over a decade of experience in Career Technical Education (CTE) as a dual enrollment instructor, including experience as an adjunct instructor and adult educator. This experience is coupled with more than fifteen years of professional expertise in graphic design, apparel design, commercial printing, photography, and production management. A passionate advocate for CTE, Arnie leverages his extensive industry experience to provide valuable support and direction to K12 Strong Workforce Pathway (SWP) initiatives. He is dedicated to equipping students with practical, real-world skills applicable to a wide range of industry sectors. Arnie is excited to serve as the Kern K12 SWP Pathway Coordinator, hosted by KCSOS.

Grecia Pacheco has over 15 years of experience in the outdoor environmental science education non-profit sector. Grecia is passionate about equity and inclusion in education and is always working towards breaking down barriers to education and providing access while creating equitable opportunities for underserved youth to achieve their educational and career goals. Her extensive experience working with diverse youth populations has established a well-rounded perspective regarding the social, emotional, and physical needs of students. She is thrilled to be the new K-12 SWP Coordinator for the College of The Sequoias Community College hosted by the Tulare County Office of Education.

Melanie serves as the K12 Strong Workforce Pathway Coordinator for the San Joaquin Delta College District, hosted by the San Joaquin County Office of Education (SJCOE). Her career in education spans multiple levels—from early childhood and K–12 to community college—where she has served in a variety of roles, including data analyst, academic advisor, and outreach manager. A school counselor at heart, Melanie brings that perspective into every role she holds, grounded in an equity-centered and data-informed mindset. With a deep passion for college and career readiness and a commitment to expanding access to postsecondary opportunities for all, her role as K12 Pathway Coordinator is a natural extension of the work she has long been dedicated to.