Earlier this year, Pivotal scholars had the opportunity to explore the world of public service at our Civil Servant Career Day. Hosted at the Center for Employment Training in San Jose, the event introduced scholars to some of the leaders shaping community change across the Bay Area and created space for honest conversation and meaningful connection between scholars and those working in government today.  

Learning from Leaders 

A panel of elected officials, including Senator Dave Cortese, Senator Dr. Aisha Wahab, Supervisor Betty Duong, and Councilmember Pamela Campos provided insights into the realities of day-to-day government work. From the start, one message stood out: there is no single path into public service. Each speaker shared a journey shaped by lived experience and a deep, unwavering commitment to community.  

Panelists spoke candidly about the importance of early experiences like internships and community involvement, and challenged the idea that impact only comes from holding office. Rather, they emphasized collaboration, and the importance of staying grounded in the needs of the communities they serve. 

A particularly powerful moment for our scholars came when Senator Dr. Aisha Wahab reflected on her personal experience in foster care and how it shaped her path to public service. She encouraged scholars to embrace both persistence and growth: 

Copy of Quotes (Twitter Style) (13)

Expanding What Public Service Looks Like 

A second panel featured civil servants working behind the scenes in policy and government roles. Speakers Michelle Pelayo-Osorio, Jordan Tachibana, Kylie Clark, and David Campos highlighted the many ways to build a career in public service beyond elected office.  

Over a working lunch, scholars explored careers in government beyond elected office and how these roles quietly shape meaningful change every day. For many, it was the first time seeing themselves reflected in these spaces. 

Building Pathways and Possibility 

Throughout the event, scholars asked thoughtful questions about representation, motivation, and navigating complex systems. Panelists responded with honesty, acknowledging challenges while reinforcing the purpose behind public service. 

From a Civics 101 session to interactive discussions and networking over lunch, the day was intentionally designed to make government careers feel within reach, especially for those who have been most impacted by these systems.  
Civil Servant Career Day (1)

Gratitude and Looking Ahead 

We are grateful to the Center for Employment Training for hosting us and to Board Member Pattie Cortese for making the day possible and exposing our scholars to the career options they might find in public service, and ideas for how they can become leaders in their own communities. By opening doors to government and advocacy pathways, we are expanding what feels possible and investing in a future shaped by our scholars.