A resident of San Diego since 1977, Andy Berg joined the staff of the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), San Diego Chapter in 2002 as the director of local government relations and economic development. In 2007, he was promoted to his current position of executive director. Additionally, he served on numerous school bond oversight committees, the Boards of the San Diego County Taxpayers Association and the Rancho Family YMCA, and as president of the Rancho Penasquitos Town Council. Here, Andy talks about the impact of workforce development in San Diego.
Why are you passionate about workforce development?
I understand the importance of work, not only for financial purposes, but also for self-esteem. Except for sleeping, adults spend more time working than doing anything else, so it is critical that we prepare people for careers that they can find fulfilling and be passionate about. Work literally changes lives!
If you had $1M to donate to a workforce development program, what would you want done with it?
I would want the money used to prepare people for careers with unlimited upward mobility. Every job should come with a realistic opportunity to move up. In the electrical construction trade, even a pre-apprentice knows that he/she has the opportunity to become a journeyman, foreman or even a company owner someday. I would like my money used to support training that leads people to find similar careers.
What do you like best about being on the Workforce Development Board?
Two things stand out to me. First is the other board members. The Workforce Partnership has attracted some of the best and brightest from our region and I appreciate the opportunity to learn from them. Second is the success stories. I am always moved to hear the stories that our clients tell of how the Workforce Partnership has affected their lives and made it better. I am proud of the work we do but I am also reminded that these are some truly amazing individuals who just needed a chance. I wonder how many more people we could help with additional resources.
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?
My wife and I enjoy wine tasting and we like to travel. Whatever I am doing, it is the people that make it special so what I really enjoy the most is spending time with friends and family.