Ignacio Gallardo

About Ignacio Gallardo

I am a dedicated leader in workforce development, career services, and student success. Throughout my career, my passion has centered on expanding access to opportunity, empowering individuals to recognize their potential, and creating pathways that support long-term economic mobility. I’ve always seen myself as a bridge—connecting people to resources, communities, and career opportunities that help them achieve their goals.After more than two decades leading Career Services at UC Santa Barbara, where I served as Executive Director and guided a team delivering comprehensive career education, employer engagement, and professional development programs for over students annually, I have transitioned into public service as an Employment Program Representative with the California Employment Development Department (EDD). In this role, I continue my commitment to workforce access by helping Californians navigate employment resources, training opportunities, and unemployment benefits, with a focus on delivering equitable services and achieving community impact.My work has also included strategic support for veteran and military-affiliated students, partnering with campus leadership to ensure their successful integration and access to tailored career and transition resources. Whether in higher education or state workforce programs, my driving purpose remains the same: to open doors, support individuals through life transitions, and strengthen the ecosystems that help people thrive.

Experience

1. Employment Program Representative, Edd

   State of California

   Dec 2025 — Present · Santa Barbara, CA, US

   As an Employment Program Representative with the California Employment Development Department, I help connect job seekers, employers, and community partners to resources that promote meaningful employment and economic mobility. My work involves providing career and workforce services through the state’s America’s Job Center network, assisting individuals with job search support, eligibility assessments, and referrals to training or unemployment benefits.I also collaborate with employers to identify hiring needs, share labor market insights, and support equitable access to California’s workforce programs. Drawing on over two decades of experience in career development and employer engagement, I’m passionate about empowering people to reach their goals and strengthening the state’s workforce ecosystem.

Education

• California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

  B.S., Psychology

  1993

• Antioch University Santa Barbara

  M.A., Psychology- Professional Development & Career Counseling

  2000 — 2002