Policy & Innovation Center Names Amanda Wagner as Vice President of Workforce Development

SAN DIEGO (Aug. 26, 2024) – The San Diego Regional Policy & Innovation Center (PIC) – a powerhouse organization dedicated to tackling the region’s biggest challenges through equity-centered research, policy analysis, and collaborative action – has announced the appointment of Amanda Wagner as its first Vice President of Workforce Development.

Wagner is a nationally recognized leader in the workforce development space, renowned for her unwavering commitment to building high-impact systems that empower job seekers of all backgrounds. She brings over a decade of experience collaborating with workforce boards across the country, and her dedication to dismantling barriers and creating equitable opportunities is truly inspiring.

“I’m incredibly excited to join PIC and support the crucial work being done here,” says Wagner. “We know that pathways to viable careers, particularly for those from underserved communities, are often riddled with obstacles. Strengthening linkages between partners is essential to better support job seekers and ensure they’re prepared to meet the talent demands of the region. PIC is also well-positioned to bring funding to the region to support workforce priorities.”

PIC President and CEO Susan Guinn added, “Amanda has a proven track record of driving education access, economic development, and clear career pathways for job seekers – including those in high-demand fields. Her innovative spirit, collaborative approach, and ability to facilitate strategic workforce initiatives in diverse communities will be instrumental in elevating San Diego’s workforce development efforts.”

Wagner’s impressive career trajectory includes leadership roles at nationally recognized workforce organizations. Previously, she served as the Chief Operating Officer of Employ Prince George’s in Maryland, where she spearheaded rapid growth through innovative program design and a dedication to serving priority populations using a collective impact model. She has also served as a national consultant, offering technical assistance to states and local workforce boards in program design, developing sector partnerships, and strategic planning.

As PIC’s first Vice President of Workforce Development, Wagner will lead the charge in developing and implementing strategies to transform the region’s workforce system. By building strategic partnerships, identifying systemic barriers, and designing scalable solutions, she will drive economic prosperity for all San Diegans. Wagner’s expertise in workforce policy and systems, coupled with her ability to secure funding and build strong partnerships, will position PIC as a national leader in workforce development.

Actively involved in advancing workforce development on a national scale, Wagner serves on the Workforce Development Council for the U.S. Conference of Mayors and the Advisory Council of the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL). She holds a master’s degree in Youth Development Leadership from Clemson University and a bachelor’s degree in Communication from Southern New Hampshire University.

To learn more, visit thinkpic.org.

About the Policy & Innovation Center (PIC)
The Policy & Innovation Center is a think tank and social-impact incubator founded in partnership with the Brookings Institution, County of San Diego, and the San Diego Foundation. PIC conducts research and policy analysis to identify creative solutions to our communities’ biggest problems, and we build cross-sector, multijurisdictional partnerships to advance those solutions. Over the coming years, PIC will continue fostering strong and diverse partnerships among the leaders of the region; use equity-centered research to identify the region’s biggest needs and the best opportunities for change; challenge systemic inequities; and develop a pipeline of sustainable, scalable projects and pilots that improve the lives of San Diegans. For more information, visit thinkpic.org.