6th Annual Community Builder Awards

Monterey County Works recently celebrated its 6th Annual Community Builders Awards, an event that highlights the individuals, employers, and community partners who make a lasting impact on workforce development across our region. These awards recognize those who go above and beyond to support job seekers, open doors to opportunity, and help build pathways to long-term success.

This year’s honorees represent the strength of collaboration. From program participants who have overcome barriers and achieved career milestones, to youth participants building confidence and skills, to business and community partners who invest time, mentorship, and resources, each award recipient plays a vital role in strengthening Monterey County’s workforce.

The Community Builders Awards serve as a reminder that workforce success is not achieved alone. It happens through partnership, trust, and a shared belief in the potential of every individual. The stories featured in this newsletter reflect perseverance, leadership, and the collective effort required to create meaningful economic opportunity.

We are proud to spotlight this year’s award recipients and grateful for their continued commitment to our community.

Adult Program Winner: Humberto Nuñez Ortiz

Humberto Nuñez Ortiz has been recognized as an outstanding participant in the Monterey County Works Adult Program for his perseverance and commitment to returning to meaningful employment. When Humberto first entered the program, he brought years of experience as a CDL-A driver. Despite his professional background, he was unemployed and facing several barriers that made reentering the workforce challenging.

At the time, Humberto did not have a resume, had limited experience navigating online job applications, and had never participated in a formal job interview. Even so, he approached the program with determination and a clear goal of returning to the commercial transportation field.

Throughout his participation, Humberto consistently demonstrated professionalism, reliability, and a strong desire to grow. He worked diligently to strengthen his skills and met all program requirements. As part of his progress, he obtained his license to transport passengers in a farm labor vehicle and completed the ACT WorkKeys assessments, earning the National Career Readiness Certificate, a nationally recognized credential that validates essential workplace skills.

With his resume and interview skills refined, Humberto was referred to Monterey Salinas Transit for a Suburban Coach Operator position. He successfully interviewed and was hired. Since joining Monterey Salinas Transit, Humberto has continued to advance in his career, earning his California Verification of Transit Training Card with his employer's support.

Pictured L-R: Diego Anguiano, Humberto Nuñez-Ortiz

Adult Program Winner: Juan E. Cordona

Juan E. Cordona has been recognized as an outstanding participant in the Monterey County Works Adult Program, distinguished by his determination, growth, and commitment to rebuilding his future. As a participant in the Monterey County Works Kickstart/AB 109 Re-Entry Program, housed at the Adult Probation Office, Juan received support designed to help formerly incarcerated individuals prepare for the workforce. Through the AB-109 grant, individuals like Juan can access job readiness training, job placement assistance, vocational tuition support, and other essential services that create a pathway toward stability and long-term success.

Juan embraced every opportunity presented to him. He completed the work experience activity at Goodwill Central Coast, where his strong work ethic and excellent customer service immediately stood out. His performance was so impactful that he was offered permanent full-time employment at the end of his placement. His dedication continued to shine, and he was soon promoted to the maintenance crew.

Today, Juan’s accomplishments extend beyond the workplace. He has achieved self-sufficiency, moved out of transitional housing, and secured a home of his own. He continues to set new goals for himself and remains committed to building a meaningful and stable future. Above all, Juan loves his job and takes great pride in his progress.

Pictured L-R: Jose Hernandez, MCWDB Board Chair Erik Cushman, Juan E. Cardona, MCWDB Executive Committee Member Paula Calvetti

Adult Program Winner: Sophia Vasquez

Sophia Vasquez has been recognized as an outstanding Adult Program Participant for her determination, courage, and willingness to pursue new opportunities. Sophia enrolled in Monterey County Works’ Tri-County Pre-Apprenticeship Program with no prior construction experience and no transferable skills. What she brought with her was a strong work ethic, a desire to learn, and the commitment to build a new path for herself.

From the moment she learned about the program, Sophia took initiative and enrolled immediately, beginning her training on April 14, 2025. She approached the program with focus and persistence and successfully completed the full course of training on September 5, 2025. In doing so, she became the first female to complete the Monterey County Works program, setting a powerful example for future participants and reinforcing the importance of representation in the trades.

During her time in the program, Sophia earned her MC3 certification along with multiple industry-recognized credentials, including OSHA 10, Concrete Techniques, Confined Space Awareness, First Aid and CPR, Fundamentals of Construction, Grade Checking, Hazardous Waste Removal, and Work Zone Safety. Each credential reflected her dedication and consistent effort throughout the program.

Following graduation, Sophia moved quickly into the workforce, securing full-time employment as a 50% Apprentice Painter through the union. After gaining hands-on experience in the field, she discovered a desire to pursue a more creative career path. Today, she is working in floral design, a field that allows her to express her creativity and passion, illustrating that success is not always linear. Her story highlights the value of taking opportunities, building skills, and having the confidence to follow a path that aligns with personal passion.

Adult Program Winner: Yesenia Garcia

Yesenia Garcia has been recognized as an outstanding Adult Program participant of Monterey County Works for her resilience, determination, and commitment to building a better future for her family. From the moment she enrolled, Yesenia demonstrated strong engagement and a clear focus on achieving her career goals.

As a young mother of two, Yesenia faced significant barriers to employment, including balancing parenting responsibilities while preparing to reenter the workforce and navigating limitations that limited access to certain career opportunities. Despite these challenges, she remained motivated, focused, and determined to create stability for herself and her children.

Throughout her participation, Yesenia consistently demonstrated a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to grow. She actively participated in the Transitional Jobs Program, where she embraced new responsibilities, developed workplace skills, and adapted quickly to professional expectations. Her journey reflects perseverance and the ability to meet challenges with confidence and purpose.

During her placement at Loaves, Fishes, and Computers, Yesenia demonstrated meaningful personal and professional growth. With limited prior work experience, she steadily built confidence, professionalism, and workplace readiness. She took initiative in her role and showed strong communication and teamwork skills. Her enthusiasm and eagerness to learn made a lasting impression on the organization.

As a result of her outstanding performance, Yesenia was offered and accepted full-time employment with Loaves, Fishes, and Computers. She continues to thrive in her position and grow within the organization. Her transition from program participant to permanent employee highlights both her dedication and the impact of the Transitional Jobs Program.

Pictured L-R: MCWDB Board Chair Erik Cushman, Yesenia Garcia, Nicole Diaz, MCWDB Executive Committee Member Paula Calvetti

Youth Program Winner: Katherine Ungar

Katherine "Kathy" Ungar has been recognized as the Outstanding Youth Program Participant for her initiative, dedication, and exceptional growth through the Monterey County Works Youth Program. Kathy was selected for the highly competitive Tech Cadre program. She was one of only four individuals chosen for the cohort.

During her interview process, Kathy stood out for her thoughtful perspective and her ability to articulate that taking initiative and adapting communication are essential when learning new skills and achieving goals. Her interest in technical work and desire to grow in the field led to her placement as an Airframe Assembly Technician.



Kathy’s strengths became apparent almost immediately. Her supervisors recognized her strong attention to detail, ability to learn complex tasks quickly, and consistently positive attitude. Within just two weeks of starting the program, her supervisor expressed interest in offering her a full-time position with Joby.

By her sixth week, Kathy officially transitioned from intern to employee, becoming one of the first participants in her cohort to secure a full-time role as an Airframe Assembly Technician. Since then, she has continued to excel in her role and was recently promoted to Airframe Assembly Technician II.

Pictured L-R: MCWDB Board Chair Erik Cushman, Kathy Ungar, MCWDB Executive Committee Member Paula Calvetti, Michael Artalejo

Youth Program Winner: Rozzy Cardenas-Juarez

Rozzy Cardenas-Juarez has been recognized as an outstanding participant in the Monterey County Works Youth Program. Throughout her time in the Monterey County Works’ Green Cadre program, Rozzy demonstrated strong reliability and determination by consistently commuting by bus from Seaside to attend the program.

During her participation, Rozzy actively engaged in training opportunities and earned her forklift certification, expanding both her skill set and her employability. Her commitment to completing the program and building practical skills reflected her strong work ethic and willingness to invest in her future.

Following her successful completion of the Green Cadre program, Rozzy continued her career journey by enrolling in and completing a Certified Nursing Assistant program. This accomplishment opened doors to employment in the healthcare field, where she secured two part-time positions and gained valuable hands-on experience caring for patients.

Most recently, Rozzy has advanced further in her career by obtaining full-time employment as a Certified Nursing Assistant at a healthcare facility in Pacific Grove. Her progression from program participant to healthcare professional highlights her perseverance, adaptability, and dedication to achieving long-term stability and success.

Pictured L-R: MCWDB Board Chair Erik Cushman, Rozzy Cardenas-Juarez, Gabriel Pena, MCWDB Executive Committee Member Paula Calvetti

Outstanding Business Partner: Delia Leal with Loaves, Fishes, & Computers

Delia Leal of Loaves, Fishes, & Computers has been recognized as the Outstanding Business Partner for her exceptional commitment to workforce inclusion, mentorship, and community service. Through her leadership, Delia created an inclusive and supportive work environment that reflects the mission and values of Loaves, Fishes, and Computers while providing meaningful opportunities for workforce participants.

Loaves, Fishes, & Computers serves low-income and elderly community members by offering digital literacy training, technology-focused courses, and access to essential devices. This work empowers individuals with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in today’s technology-driven workforce. Guided by this mission, Delia and her team went above and beyond in hosting a participant through the Transitional Jobs Program.

Throughout the placement, Delia demonstrated patience, empathy, and flexibility while supporting the participant through unique barriers. She fostered an environment rooted in encouragement and mentorship, allowing the participant to build both personal confidence and professional skills. Loaves, Fishes, and Computers worked closely with Monterey County Works staff to ensure the role aligned with the participant’s strengths and developmental goals, creating a hands-on, impactful learning experience.

Delia’s commitment extended beyond program participation. Recognizing the participant’s strong work ethic and dedication, Loaves, Fishes, & Computers offered permanent employment upon program completion. This decision reflects a deep belief in equity, workforce inclusion, and long-term community investment.

Delia Leal’s leadership and partnership exemplify how businesses can play a vital role in empowering job seekers while strengthening the local workforce. Her dedication makes her a deserving recipient of the Outstanding Business award, and her impact continues to benefit both individuals and the broader community.

Pictured L-R: MCWDB Board Chair Erik Cushman, Nicole Diaz, Delia Leal, MCWDB Member Kimberly Schnader

Outstanding Business Partner: Kelly Halcon, Monterey-Salinas Transit

Kelly Halcon and Monterey-Salinas Transit have been recognized as Outstanding Business Partners for their consistent commitment to workforce development and community engagement. Through their leadership and organizational support, Monterey-Salinas Transit has played a meaningful role in creating career pathways for job seekers across the region.

Monterey-Salinas Transit has remained actively engaged in local workforce efforts by regularly participating in job fairs, recruitment events, and community outreach activities. Their involvement reflects a genuine commitment to supporting individuals seeking employment and long-term career growth. This presence has been intentional, reliable, and deeply valued by both program partners and participants.

What sets Monterey-Salinas Transit apart is its openness to opportunity. The organization welcomes candidate referrals, takes the time to interview and listen, and thoughtfully considers each individual’s potential. This approach allows job seekers to be seen for their abilities and willingness to learn, rather than being defined by barriers or past experiences.

Through this partnership, Monterey-Salinas Transit has helped individuals connect to meaningful careers that offer stability, professional advancement, and renewed confidence. Their efforts have resulted in long-term employment outcomes and continued growth for many Monterey County Works participants. Their approach serves as a strong example of employer engagement rooted in compassion, collaboration, and accountability.

Pictured L-R: MCWDB Board Chair Erik Cushman, Melissa Vargas accepting on behalf of Kelly Halcon, Diego Anguiano, MCWDB Member Kimberly Schnader

Outstanding Business Partner: Margarita Campos, Condor Security of America, Inc.

Margarita Campos of Condor Security of America, Inc. has been recognized as an Outstanding Business Partner for her dedication to workforce engagement and community collaboration. As a Staffing Coordinator, Margarita has played a vital role in connecting job seekers with employment opportunities while representing her organization with professionalism and care.

Since July 1 of this year, Margarita has represented Condor Security of America, Inc. at nine job fairs throughout Monterey County. Her consistent presence and hands-on engagement with job seekers have directly led to the hiring of multiple individuals into full-time positions and the onboarding of many others as temporary employees to support events across the region.

Through her efforts, Condor Security continues to maintain a skilled and responsive workforce prepared to deliver tailored security services to businesses and community partners. The organization remains committed to building strong client relationships and providing dependable, high-quality service throughout Monterey County.

Margarita’s work reflects the core values of Condor Security of America, Inc., and embodies the company’s guiding principle that safety is created through care, commitment, and people-centered service. Her willingness to invest time, energy, and attention into workforce development has created meaningful employment opportunities and strengthened the local labor market.

Margarita Campos’s leadership and dedication make her a deserving recipient of the Outstanding Business Partner award. Her contributions highlight the powerful role employers play in building a strong, reliable, and community-focused workforce.

Pictured L-R: MCWDB Board Chair Erik Cushman, Margarita Campos, Laura Kershner, MCWDB Member Kimberly Schnader

Outstanding Business Partner: Sierra Garcia, Kona Steak and Seafood

Sierra Garcia of KONA Steak and Seafood has been recognized as an Outstanding Business Partner for her commitment to youth development, workforce engagement, and community building. For more than two and a half years, KONA Steak and Seafood has proudly served the community while creating a welcoming space where family and friends can gather and enjoy exceptional dining experiences.

From the moment KONA learned about the Monterey County Works Young Adult Work Experience Program, the team recognized the value of supporting young adults as they begin their career journeys. Sierra and the KONA team embraced the opportunity to share their knowledge and industry experience, helping young participants build skills, confidence, and a strong foundation for future success.

Through this partnership, KONA has welcomed young adults who are eager to learn and motivated to grow. These participants have brought kindness, hospitality, and positive energy to the workplace, qualities that align closely with KONA’s mission and values. In return, the KONA team has invested time and care in teaching the importance of hard work, patience, and professionalism.

Partnering with Monterey County Works has allowed KONA to strengthen its connection to the community while providing meaningful work experience for young adults. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to workforce development and long-term community impact.

KONA’s recognition as an Outstanding Business Partner reflects its genuine dedication to making a difference. Sierra Garcia’s leadership and the continued support of the KONA team have created opportunities that extend beyond the workplace. 

Pictured L-R: MCWDB Board Chair Erik Cushman, Sierra Garcia, MCWDB Member Kimberly Schnader, Lourdes Luviano

Outstanding Community Partner: Bonnie Adams, Pacific Grove Community Garden

Bonnie Adams of the Pacific Grove Community Garden has been recognized as the Outstanding Community Partner for her generosity, leadership, and unwavering commitment to youth, sustainability, and community connection. What began as a simple visit to the Pacific Grove Adult School in search of a partnership quickly became something far more meaningful when Monterey County Works connected with Bonnie and the vibrant garden community she leads.

From the very beginning, Bonnie welcomed Monterey County Works’ Green Cadre participants with openness, kindness, and genuine care. She created an environment rooted in encouragement, learning, and shared purpose, where young people could engage in hands-on work in gardening, environmental stewardship, sustainability, and community feeding. The garden became a place where participants felt valued, supported, and inspired.

Over the past year and a half, the partnership with the Pacific Grove Community Garden has become a cornerstone of the Green Cadre experience. Even on challenging days, time spent in the garden has lifted spirits and strengthened connections. While Bonnie often expresses appreciation for help with physically demanding tasks, her ability to foster a positive, uplifting environment has had the greatest impact.

Bonnie is supported by a dedicated team that has formed meaningful relationships with participants and contributed to a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. The garden has become a space not only for work, but for conversation, growth, and personal connection.

Beyond her work with Green Cadre, Bonnie remains deeply committed to teaching gardening classes through the Adult School and coordinating the distribution of harvested produce to support food-insecure families. She consistently goes out of her way to attend Green Cadre graduation ceremonies, offering encouragement and celebrating each cohort’s achievements. 

Pictured L-R: MCWDB Board Chair Erik Cushman, Pacific Grove Team Member Judith Roth, Bonnie Adams, MCWDB Member Alma Diaz, Michael Artalego

Outstanding Community Partner: Greg Venegas, Northern California Laborers Training Center

Greg Venegas of the Northern California Laborers Training Center has been recognized as an Outstanding Community Partner for his leadership, dedication, and lasting impact on workforce development. As the instructor for the Tri-County Pre-Apprenticeship Program, Greg has led four full cohorts and is currently guiding his fifth, playing a critical role in the program's continued success.

From the program’s beginning, Greg has demonstrated exceptional patience, commitment, and instructional leadership. Through his guidance, countless participants have successfully completed the program and gone on to secure employment in the construction industry, join labor unions, and establish strong career pathways. His influence has directly contributed to long-term employment outcomes and workforce readiness across the region.

Under Greg’s instruction, participants earn their MC3 certificate along with multiple industry-recognized credentials, including OSHA 10, Concrete Techniques, Confined Space Awareness, First Aid and CPR, Fundamentals of Construction, Grade Checking, Hazardous Waste Removal, and Work Zone Safety. These credentials represent more than certifications, as they serve as gateways to opportunity and career advancement. Greg ensures that every participant leaves the program prepared for the demands of the construction workforce.

Beyond technical instruction, Greg focuses on preparing participants for real-world job expectations. He builds confidence, reinforces professionalism, and connects students directly with union representatives and industry professionals, opening doors to careers that many participants had not previously considered.

Greg also works closely with the Monterey County Workforce Development Board to ensure participants have access to essential resources, including hand tools, personal protective equipment, work boots, and gas reimbursement. This support helps remove financial barriers and allows participants to remain focused on completing the program. 

Pictured L-R: MCWDB Board Chair Erik Cushman, Greg Venegas, Alfredo Argueta, MCWDB Member Alma Diaz

Outstanding Community Partner: Kesley Scanlon and Laura Emmons, County of Monterey Department of Emergency Management

Kelsey Scanlon and Laura Emmons of the County of Monterey Department of Emergency Management have been recognized as Outstanding Community Partners for their leadership, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to community recovery and resilience. Over the past two years, Monterey County Works has had the privilege of working closely with Kelsey, Laura, and their team to implement the Pajaro Small Business Assistance Program.

In March 2023, a levee breach in the unincorporated community of Pajaro caused widespread devastation. Homes and businesses were severely damaged, and many residents lost irreplaceable belongings, equipment, and inventory. In response, the Department of Emergency Management quickly developed plans to support recovery through targeted assistance initiatives.

Through this partnership, Monterey County Works distributed more than $4 million in assistance to 94 small businesses affected by flooding. This funding enabled business owners to recover losses from damaged equipment and inventory and to invest in critical improvements, including interior and exterior repairs, paint, fencing, signage, lighting, and parking areas.

Throughout the program's implementation, Kelsey and Laura provided consistent guidance, advocacy, and support. They worked closely with staff to navigate complex processes, address challenges, and ensure timely, effective assistance reached businesses. Their trust and collaboration made it possible to serve the community with care and efficiency.

While the work involved significant challenges and emotional moments, the partnership remained strong and deeply rewarding. Kelsey and Laura exemplify effective community leadership during times of crisis. 

Pictured L-R: Vanessa Kor, MCWDB Board Chair Erik Cushman, Kelsey Scanlon, Laura Emmons, Andrea Estrada, MCWDB Member Alma Diaz, MCWDB Executive Director Chris Donnelly

Outstanding Community Partner: Thys Norton, City of Monterey

Thys Norton of the City of Monterey has been recognized as an Outstanding Community Partner for his leadership, collaboration, and ongoing commitment to workforce development and environmental stewardship. The partnership began in September 2023, when Thys reached out to explore opportunities to collaborate with Monterey County Works’ Green Cadre Program after learning about it through California State Parks.

From the very first conversation, Thys demonstrated a clear vision for engaging young people in meaningful hands-on work. He identified opportunities across green belts, parks, fuel reduction efforts, and special projects throughout the City of Monterey. Since that time, Thys and the Monterey Parks team have become an integral part of the Green Cadre experience.

Through this partnership, participants receive power tool training and gain hands-on experience working on real projects that benefit the community. Four weeks of every Green Cadre cohort are dedicated to working side by side with the City of Monterey Parks team, providing consistent exposure to professional work environments and industry expectations.

Thys has shown exceptional reliability and flexibility, always making space for Green Cadre participants even when schedules change or unexpected challenges arise. His willingness to adapt and prioritize the program has strengthened outcomes for participants and ensured continuity of learning.

Beyond training and project collaboration, Thys actively supports workforce placement. When positions in his department become available, he consistently reaches out for referrals. As a result, one Green Cadre participant is now employed by the City of Monterey, and another is currently in the hiring process.

Pictured L-R: MCWDB Board Chair Erik Cushman, City of Monterey Representative Steve Garcia, Thys Norton, MCWDB Member Alma Diaz, Michael Artalego

Outstanding Staff Member: Elizabeth Kaylor

Elizabeth Kaylor has been recognized as Monterey County Works’ Outstanding Staff Member of the Year for her exceptional dedication, expertise, and leadership in workforce development. As a longtime workforce professional, Elizabeth plays a critical role in ensuring the integrity, effectiveness, and compliance of the Monterey County Workforce Development Board’s programs and operations.

In her role as Management Analyst, Elizabeth serves as the organization’s primary grant and contract writer as well as its Equal Opportunity Officer. She manages some of the most complex and high-stakes responsibilities within the Workforce Development Board, consistently maintaining an extraordinary level of accuracy, accountability, and professionalism. Her work ensures that programs funded through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and other sources operate in full compliance with state and federal requirements.

Elizabeth serves as the primary liaison with County Counsel, supporting the development of agreements and preparing requests for action for the Board of Supervisors. She manages WIOA procurements and contracting, provides process training to fellow analysts, and works closely with the Executive Director to develop and negotiate contracts, grant agreements, performance plans, and budgets.

Beyond her technical expertise, Elizabeth provides leadership across the organization. She oversees and guides staff and partners working on complex initiatives, writes or edits the majority of WIOA-related policies and recommendations, and regularly presents key reports to the Workforce Development Board and its committees. Her ability to translate complex regulations into clear and actionable guidance has been essential to the Board’s success.

Pictured L-R: MCWDB Executive Director Chris Donnelly, Elizabeth Kaylor,

MCWDB Board Chair Erik Cushman

SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

GOLD

SILVER

BRONZE

SBDC Capital Access Center

Build Your Future with Skills That Pay

A partnership with LIUNA, the Laborers’ International Union of North America

Know someone interested in a career in the building trades? Building trades jobs offer pathways to good-paying work and solid benefits. Individuals can begin their journey toward securing a position in the trades by enrolling in the Monterey County Workforce Development Board’s pre-apprenticeship training program, a 10-week, 350-hour hands-on learning experience. “Upon completion of the pre-apprenticeship training program, participants will obtain the skills needed to apply for an apprenticeship program in various trades,” said Executive Director Christopher Donnelly.

The Monterey County Works Pre-Apprenticeship Training Program, offered in partnership with the Monterey/Santa Cruz Building and LIUNA Trades Council, helps local job seekers gain practical skills and prepare for rewarding careers. Instructor Greg Villegas emphasized the value of hands-on learning. “Hands-on training, real projects…they learn more with real projects. [It’s] more complete learning. We rent the space in the Plumbers Union Hall. We’ve been able to work on the union hall instead of hiring the work out,” he said.

“Opportunities in the trades are open to both men and women who want job growth and a future they can build on,” said Donnelly. “We are pleased to share that our current cohort has a record number of women participating. Women are recognizing that the route to a self-sufficient career for themselves and their families is through the trades, and we are delighted that they are participating with us.”

During the training, participants learn:

• How the construction industry works

• How to use hand and power tools

• Basic skills in various trades

• How to read a blueprint

• How to apply basic mathematics for construction

Participants earn the following certifications:

• Safety certification

• OSHA 30

• Hazwoper 24 safety certification

• CPR/First Aid

• Aerial lift and platform lift certifications

• Multi-Craft Core Curriculum (MC3) certification, a national training program

Program Details

Class times: Monday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Program Requirements:

• Must be 18 years or older

• Must have a high school diploma, GED, or completed college

• Must have a valid driver’s license

• Must pass a drug screening test

• Must be able to work legally in the United States

• Must be physically able to lift up to 50 pounds

The next Tri-County Training program begins January 19, 2026. Those interested are encouraged to visit the Monterey County Works website and look for the Tri-County Pre-Apprenticeship Training Program registration page. The program is competitive and limited to no more than 21 participants.

A Quick Look at Local Unemployment

In September 2025, Monterey County’s unemployment rate dipped slightly to 5.4 percent, down from 5.7 percent in August. While this is a positive step, unemployment remains higher than it was a year ago, when the rate was 4.9 percent. For comparison, California’s unemployment rate was 5.6 percent, and the national rate was lower at 4.3 percent.

Job Seekers                

Are you ready to take the next step in your career journey? Attending a job fair is one of the most effective ways to connect with leading employers, discover new opportunities, and showcase your skills—all in one convenient place.

Employers  

Are you looking for a cost-effective way to meet motivated, qualified candidates? Participating in a job fair or hiring event allows you to engage with job seekers directly, promote your company, and fill your positions faster.

Level Up Your Job Search

Are you interested in polishing and updating your résumé? What about making career-ready lasting impressions? Or maybe you’d like to discover your potential through a customized customer discovery career path? Perhaps you’d like to learn how to navigate some of the biggest online job search platforms? Or make inroads with your networking game plan? 

Monterey County Works offers customized workshops for individual job seekers enrolled in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program. Follow the hyperlink to enroll and then contact our Welcome Desk at (831) 796-3335 to learn more about our workshops and how to register.