Introducing Our Newest SLOCEA Team Member

Jennifer Tate, Labor Representative

SLOCEA is proud to welcome our newest Labor Representative, Jennifer Tate, whose career path, passion for advocacy, and commitment to helping others make her a wonderful addition to our team.

Jennifer’s journey to SLOCEA began in Visalia, in California’s Central Valley, where she grew up before moving to the Central Coast more than 20 years ago. Following her father to the area, Jennifer enrolled at Cuesta College and pursued studies in political science. She went on to earn associate degrees in Political Science, Legal Studies, and Law & Public Policy. Jennifer initially planned to become a lawyer, but as her studies continued, she realized she was more inspired by roles that allowed her to advocate for others, help people navigate systems, and create positive change.

That passion for advocacy has shown up in many aspects of her life, whether as a manager guiding staff, a peer supporting coworkers, a PTA Board member, and now as part of SLOCEA.

Before joining our team, Jennifer built a diverse career across nonprofit programs, retail management, and healthcare. Most recently, she worked in the healthcare field as a Program Manager for a company contracted by hospitals to oversee their Safe Patient Handling and Mobility programs. Her team provided education and hands-on assistance whenever hospital staff needed to mobilize their patients. Though she says she found that position “by accident,” it turned into a deeply rewarding role where she could combine leadership with meaningful service.

Still, Jennifer was looking for an opportunity that would allow her to grow professionally while exploring a different industry. With her strong background in leadership, contracts, and project management—and her natural drive to advocate for others—moving into the world of labor unions felt like a natural next step.

“Jennifer brings a wealth of leadership experience and an impressive skill set in managing contracts and complex projects,” said Emily Landis, SLOCEA Executive Director. “Beyond her professional strengths, she has a genuine appreciation for the value of public employment and a strong desire to grow in a career that makes a difference. I am so pleased to welcome her to SLOCEA and look forward to seeing the impact she will have for our members.”

At home, Jennifer is a proud wife and mom. She and her husband have been together for 16 years and stay busy keeping up with their 10-year-old daughter’s active schedule. When she does have free time, she enjoys slowing life down with outdoor adventures. Camping and hiking are her favorite activities—so much so that when asked how she’d like to celebrate her birthday, her immediate answer is always “camping!” During the pandemic, she also taught herself to knit and crochet, and she enjoys making handmade gifts whenever time allows.

In her first week at SLOCEA, Jennifer has already been struck by our meaningful work and the mission she is now a part of. She shared that, “So far, my experience has been very positive, and I feel like SLOCEA is a good fit for me.” For Jennifer, this new position combines her educational background with her love for advocacy in what she calls “a happy marriage of the two.”

After 20 years of experience in the private sector and other industries, Jennifer is excited to learn the ins and outs of the public sector. She is eager to dive in, grow, and contribute to SLOCEA’s mission of supporting and advocating for our members.

Please join us in giving Jennifer a warm welcome to the SLOCEA family!

Briana Dickey

Officer Administrator