Loren Shimanek

Loren Shimanek serves as a senior policy analyst for the Workforce Development and Economic Policy program in the National Governors Association’s Center for Best Practices where he provides technical assistance and research specializing in cross-system strategic state planning, workforce development policy, labor market analysis, performance and evaluation, and integrated service delivery innovation best practices.

Prior to joining NGA, Loren was a senior research specialist for California’s Workforce Development Board. At the state board, Loren assisted in the development of the state’s workforce development strategic plan, provided staff support for the state board, coordinated and facilitated stakeholder work groups, developed policy guidance with state and regional partners, and was responsible for negotiating and setting performance goals on behalf of then Governor Jerry Brown. Loren also lead technical assistance and evaluations of discretionary and state-funded workforce initiatives and worked on many of the state board’s regional sector strategy and program innovation initiatives that sought to increase equitable access to supportive services, training and employment opportunities for the state’s underrepresented populations, including initiatives designed for justice-involved individuals, English language learners and individuals with disabilities. Loren has also worked within the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics Current Employment Statistics program to produce labor market information products and has developed occupational skills and credential research funded by the Employment and Training Administration. Loren received his bachelor’s degree in sociology and cultural anthropology from the university of California, Davis.