Theresa Saephanh
Richmond,CA
Summary
Strategic and student-centered career development professional with over 5 years of experience leading career exploration initiatives, internship programs, and community partnerships that support post-secondary success. Proven ability to design and implement comprehensive work-based learning experiences for high school students. Adept at managing partnerships with employers, intermediary organizations, and nonprofits. Bilingual in English and Spanish, with strong skills in program evaluation, mentorship, and stakeholder collaboration.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Youth Employment Specialist
Bridges from School to Work
10.2023 - Current
- Lead career readiness and internship programming for high school students, with an emphasis on 11th-12th grade work-based learning experiences
- Develop and deliver a comprehensive career exploration curriculum in collaboration with school partners, aligned with post-secondary planning goals
- Cultivate partnerships with local businesses, nonprofits, and workforce development organizations to secure internship opportunities that align with students' academic and career interests
- Manage all logistical aspects of student internships, including preparation, onboarding, and ongoing mentorship throughout the internship experience
- Monitor and evaluate program outcomes through data tracking and student/employer feedback, using insights to refine and improve program offerings
- Provide professional development workshops on resume building, interview skills, and workplace readiness for students and families
- Serve as the primary liaison for employers and community partners, ensuring positive and impactful work-based learning experiences
Family and Community Engagement Specialist
CocoKids
11.2022 - 10.2023
- Coordinated access to community-based services and workforce readiness programs for families from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds
- Conducted student and family assessments to determine eligibility for educational and social service programs, supporting career development and post-secondary preparation
- Organized and facilitated workshops on career readiness, community resource navigation, and parent engagement to strengthen family involvement in student success
- Partnered with schools, local agencies, and nonprofits to enhance access to internships, job training programs, and career exploration activities
- Maintained detailed case records, monitored outcomes, and ensured compliance with program regulations and standards
Career Development Coach
California Employment Development Department (EDD)
07.2021 - 10.2022
- Delivered individualized career counseling services to diverse populations, supporting clients in identifying and achieving their career goals
- Coordinated with workforce agencies and employers to create internship and job placement opportunities for young adults and underserved communities
- Facilitated career workshops and training on professional skills, resume writing, interview techniques, and workplace expectations
- Monitored program compliance with state guidelines and used data-driven strategies to improve program effectiveness and participant success
- Provided mentorship and guidance throughout the job search process, fostering skill development and career readiness
Education
Bachelor's Degree - Sociology
California State University, East Bay
HaywardAssociate of Arts (AA) - Applied Behavior Analysis
Los Medanos College
PittsburgCertificate - Human Resource Management
University of California, Davis
Associate's Degree - Sociology
Los Medanos College
Skills
- Career Exploration Curriculum Development
- Internship Program Coordination
- Work-Based Learning Initiatives (Grades 9-12)
- Partnership Development & Stakeholder Engagement
- Program Leadership & Budget Management
- Student Mentorship & Professional Development
- Workshop Facilitation & Training
- Data Tracking, Evaluation & Program Improvement
- Equity-Focused Student Support Services
- Bilingual: English & Spanish
Professional Highlights
- Successfully coordinated internship placements for over 150 high school youth through partnerships with local businesses and nonprofits.
- Designed and facilitated career exploration programming that increased student participation in post-secondary planning initiatives by 35%.
- Managed collaborative relationships with community partners and intermediary organizations, ensuring high-quality internship experiences aligned with educational and industry standards.
- Consistently leveraged data to evaluate program effectiveness and refine strategies for enhanced student outcomes.
Timeline
Youth Employment Specialist
Bridges from School to Work
10.2023 - Current
Family and Community Engagement Specialist
CocoKids
11.2022 - 10.2023
Career Development Coach
California Employment Development Department (EDD)
07.2021 - 10.2022
Certificate - Human Resource Management
University of California, Davis
Associate's Degree - Sociology
Los Medanos College
Bachelor's Degree - Sociology
California State University, East Bay
Associate of Arts (AA) - Applied Behavior Analysis
Los Medanos College
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