VENTURA, CALIF.--The Workforce Investment Board (WIB) of Ventura County announced the recipients of the 2009 Annual WIB Awards at its June 11 annual meeting. The awards recognize individuals and organizations exhibiting exemplary dedication to advancing workforce development in Ventura County.
"Our award recipients are Ventura County's unsung heroes. Without fanfare, they have helped hundreds of individuals reach their potential through employment and employment training opportunities,"
The following individuals were honored:
Collaborative Action Award - Captain David Fleisch, Chief Staff Officer, Naval Base Ventura County. In a leadership role, Fleisch reaches out to business, economic development, education and community-based organizations to raise awareness of civilian employment and procurement opportunities available at NBVC and to identify ways to leverage the talent of retiring members of the military. He is widely respected in the community for his ability to invite diverse groups to the table for candid discussions and realistic problem solving.
Lifelong Learning Award - Joan Baldarrama, Vice President of Administration, Lucix Corporation, Camarillo. Lucix is a leader in design and manufacturing of high performance, microwave and millimeter devices and subsystems. Baldarrama has relied on the Job & Career Centers (JCC) for over seven years to screen and refer potential workers for highly-specialized manufacturing positions. She also works with the JCCs to provide on-the-job training for employees, enabling them to advance within the company.
Champion for Job Growth Award - Efren Gorre, Chief Program Officer, City Corps of the Central Coast. City Corps inspires and motivates youth, ages 12 to 24, to develop leadership, life, social, and work readiness skills, while giving back to the community. Founded in Oxnard in 1995, City Corps is a non-profit organization that has grown into a multiple-county initiative. As its leader, Gorre has been a passionate advocate for youth, continually seeking new job opportunities and training for Ventura County’s future workforce.
Opportunity Award (two winners)
- Walter Knauss, Chief Operating Officer, Bestforms, Camarillo. Established in 1985, Bestforms is a printing company that emphasized a team approach and specializes in creative solutions to difficult printing problems. Knauss has a strong commitment to helping employees learn new skills through on-the-job training. He works with JCC account executives on employee recruitment and training to support and grow successful employees.
- Lori O'Neil, DVM, owner, Adobe Animal Hospital, Oxnard. O'Neil is committed to providing comprehensive, state-of-the-
"This year's WIB Award recipients demonstrate vision and leadership in helping others achieve career success," says Cheryl Moore, executive director of the Ventura County WIB. "With such dedicated and committed individuals in our community, Ventura County can continue building a strong and talented workforce."
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