Janelle Kellman: 5 Things That Local, State & Federal Governments Can Do To Create More Job Opportunities

An Interview With Eric Pines

Invest in Workforce Training & Apprenticeships — Expanding partnerships with community colleges and trade schools will ensure people have the skills needed for high-growth industries. In California, I’ve worked to bring public and private partners together to create these pipelines.

Recently there has been a spate of massive layoffs particularly in the Tech sector. What are some things that Local, State & Federal governments can do to create new job opportunities? In this interview series, we are talking to business leaders who can share their ideas about this question. As a part of this interview, we had the pleasure to interview Janelle Kellman, Candidate for Lieutenant Governor of California.

Janelle Kellman is a policy leader and former mayor of Sausalito committed to strengthening California’s economy and expanding job opportunities. With expertise in economic development, sustainable infrastructure, and climate innovation, she has worked to create policies that support small businesses, entrepreneurs, and environmental initiatives. Now running for California Lieutenant Governor in 2026, Janelle is focused on driving economic growth and ensuring a more prosperous future for all Californians.

Thank you so much for doing this with us! Our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you share the “backstory” behind what brought you to this particular career path?

My journey has always been about bringing people together to solve real problems. I started as an environmental lawyer, working to balance economic growth with sustainability. Then, as Mayor of Sausalito, I saw firsthand how local policies directly impact jobs, businesses, and quality of life. That experience inspired me to take my work to the state level. Now, as a candidate for Lieutenant Governor, I’m focused on ensuring that California remains a place where people can find meaningful work, afford to live, and thrive.

Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you started your career? Can you tell us what lesson you learned from that?

One of the most challenging and eye-opening experiences of my career was working to address a homeless encampment in my community. Rather than just discussing the problem, we focused on deploying practical solutions — securing transitional housing, streamlining services, and holding agencies accountable for real outcomes. It reinforced for me that leadership isn’t just about policy; it’s about action and measurable impact. The lesson I took away was that meaningful change happens when we commit to both compassion and accountability.

You are a successful leader. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?

• Resilience — During the pandemic, we had to make tough decisions daily. One example was navigating support for local businesses while keeping public health a priority. There was no perfect answer, but resilience meant adapting and pushing forward.
• Collaboration — When working on coastal adaptation policy, I brought together scientists, businesses, and policymakers to create solutions that worked for everyone. Jobs and sustainability don’t have to be at odds.
• Pragmatism — Ideology doesn’t create jobs; smart, practical policy does. I focus on policies that get results, whether that’s supporting vocational training or streamlining business regulations.

Are you working on any exciting new projects now? How do you think that will help people?

Yes! One initiative I’m championing is expanding workforce development in the ‘blue economy’ — jobs related to our ports, harbors, and coastal industries. California’s coastline is an economic powerhouse, and by investing in clean energy, shipping innovation, and climate resilience, we can create thousands of new jobs while protecting our environment.

Ok, thank you for that. Let’s now jump to the main focus of our interview. From your point of view, how would you rate the current state of the US employment situation?

We have a strong economy in many ways, but too many people feel left behind. Wages haven’t kept up with costs, and entire industries — like clean energy and infrastructure — are struggling to find trained workers. We need to bridge that gap.

Can you identify a few areas of the US Labor market that are going really great?

Tech innovation, clean energy, and logistics are all growing. The CHIPS Act is helping manufacturing, and California’s leadership in climate tech is opening doors for new industries. However, we need to ensure these jobs are accessible to everyone.

Can you identify a few areas of the US Labor market that should be prioritized for improvement? Can you explain why those are so critical?

Skilled Trades & Infrastructure — We need more electricians, welders, and construction workers to build the future economy.

Healthcare & Public Services — The workforce is stretched too thin, and we need to invest in training and retention.

Clean Energy & Climate Resilience — We have federal funding, but we need a pipeline of workers ready to fill these roles.

Thank you for all of that. Here is the main question of our interview. Can you please suggest 5 things that local, state & federal governments can do to create more job opportunities? Can you please share a story or example for each?

1. Invest in Workforce Training & Apprenticeships — Expanding partnerships with community colleges and trade schools will ensure people have the skills needed for high-growth industries. In California, I’ve worked to bring public and private partners together to create these pipelines.
2. Support Small Businesses & Entrepreneurs — Most jobs come from small businesses, yet many struggle to get loans or cut through red tape. We need to streamline permits and expand access to capital.
3. Leverage Public-Private Partnerships — Government should work hand-in-hand with the private sector to build job-creating industries like offshore wind, clean shipping, and advanced manufacturing. I’ve worked on policies that incentivize businesses to invest in these areas.
4. Prioritize Infrastructure & Climate Resilience Projects — Roads, bridges, ports, and clean energy infrastructure create immediate jobs and long-term economic benefits. As Mayor, I saw how even small investments in resilience projects led to new opportunities.
5. Expand Access to Affordable Childcare & Housing — Job creation isn’t just about industries; it’s about making sure people can work. Affordable housing near job centers and reliable childcare are key to workforce participation.

What role do you think the private sector, educational institutions, and non-profit organizations play in creating more job opportunities in collaboration with the government? Can you share any examples or success stories?

Collaboration is everything. For example, California’s maritime academies are working with ports and shipping companies to train the next generation of workers. That model — where government, business, and education align — is exactly what we need more of.

Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” — Margaret Mead. This resonates with me because leadership is about bringing people together to drive meaningful change. It’s not about being perfect — it’s about progress and collective action.

We are blessed that some of the biggest names in Business, VC funding, Sports, and Entertainment read this column. Is there a person in the world, or in the US, with whom you would love to have a private breakfast or lunch, and why? He or she might just see this if we tag them :-)

I’d love to sit down with Laurene Powell Jobs and Tom Steyer. Their work on market drivers for economic mobility that speak to the health of our planet and impacts to our communities is inspiring, and I think there’s incredible potential for collaboration.

How can our readers further follow your work online?

You can follow my work on my campaign website, [Insert Website], as well as on social media:

• Twitter/X:@JanelleKellman
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janelle-kellman-esq-she-her-86021a4/
• Instagram: @janellekellmanforltg
• Facebook: @janellekellmanforltg

I regularly share updates on policy initiatives, community events, and ways to get involved. Looking forward to engaging with you!

Thank you so much for these insights!