The IWSI America Team
Nicholas Wyman
Executive Director
Nick has been the Executive Director of IWSI America since 2006, where he developed a mentoring-based workforce model that enhances the skills and attitudes of individuals transitioning from school to work. He has presented on workforce development and mentoring in Australia and internationally, representing Group Training Australia at the OECD roundtable.
Alfonso Ordaz
Partnership Associate, Business Development
Alfonso has a background in politics, local government, and nonprofit operations. Alfonso's greatest strengths lie in communication and the development of strategic partnerships. Driven by a deep commitment to service, Alfonso's goal is to empower his community through leadership, collaboration, and opportunity creation.
Deborah Williamson Phd
Vice-President
Deborah Williamson brings significant expertise in juvenile delinquency, apprenticeship, and education policy. She leads youth-oriented projects in partnership with the Urban Institute and California Department of Rehabilitation, holds a technical degree from Hocking College and has been recognized nationally by the American Forestry Association's Global Releaf Program for creating Target Green for juvenile offenders.
Jack Pennoyer
Career Pathways Mentor & Team Leader
Jack Pennoyer brings engagement, passion, and a desire for lifelong learning to the forefront of his work with IWSI America. Drawing upon over a decade of non-profit aligned experience in special education and supported employment, he embraces all kinds of minds and weaves a strengths-based focus into his love for connecting with others.
Gabriel Pena
Work-Based Learning Field Coordinator
Gabriel supports apprentices through coaching and mentoring, with a background in youth workforce programs and employer engagement. He manages operational communication with host employers and provides regular field reporting to ensure continuous improvement.
Michael Bernick
Senior Consultant and Strategy Advisor
A former Director of the California Employment Development Department, Michael has deep expertise in workforce policy, labour market trends, and apprenticeship strategy. He provides advisory support on project design, grant narratives, and stakeholder engagement.
Bryan Smith
Program Coordinator/Career Coach
Bryan Smith has several years of experience as a career coach, he worked to assist clients in obtaining skills to get that ‘necessary job to pay the bills’ while also boosting their morale to never lose hope on long-term goals.In addition to helping people, Bryan is an animal-person. His residence is a few acres where a variety of rescued animals have found a safe place to stay.