Newsletter

California JPIA Promotes Ryan Thomas to Training Manager

The California JPIA is pleased to announce the promotion of Ryan Thomas from Senior Training Specialist to Training Manager. Throughout his tenure at the Authority, Thomas has demonstrated excellence in curriculum development, virtual learning leadership, and member support.

“When Ryan joined the Authority, he brought municipal experience and an understanding of our members’ needs to his role,” said Chief Executive Officer Alex Smith. “He is committed to expanding our training offerings and embracing new technologies. Ryan’s promotion to Training Manager will strengthen and improve member services, especially as it relates to developing new training content.”

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After earning his B.A. in political science and M.A. in public administration from California State University, Long Beach, Thomas began his career at the City of Bellflower’s front desk. He then spent five years as a management analyst for the City of Paramount, where he collaborated with Authority staff on worker’s compensation cases. He then transitioned to the City of Costa Mesa, where he served as a principal human resources analyst for 10 years before taking on a role at the California JPIA in January 2016.

“My experience at a couple of member municipalities gave me a deep understanding of their challenges and risk exposures,” said Thomas. “I always appreciated the Authority’s resources, particularly our training programs, which not only ensure regulatory compliance but also keep employees safe and inspire confidence in their daily jobs.”

In his new role, Thomas will oversee the Authority’s training program, including its online learning management system (LMS), academies, and live classroom training as well as instructor management. He will also provide direction to the training staff during a period of growth and technological advancement for the Authority.

Since joining the Authority in 2016, Thomas has made significant contributions to the organization’s training program. He developed the Supervisor Essential Skills series, developed the Risk Management Practitioner series in partnership with CPS HR Consulting and Norm Pederson, developed the Authority’s online e-learning catalog, and established three new academies: the Elected Official Summit, Executive Summit, and Public Safety Academy.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted Thomas’ adaptability and technological skills. He quickly mastered virtual platforms like Zoom and ON24, helping the Authority maintain its high standard of member service. His adoption of broadcast technology and virtual learning solutions continues to enhance the team’s digital capabilities and resources.

“We are truly fortunate at the Authority to have an amazing staff comprised of really bright, talented, and experienced risk managers, program managers, directors, and supporting staff,” said Thomas. “We have no islands at the Authority, we are incredibly interconnected and helpful to one another. By understanding what challenges members are experiencing and keeping our eyes on the legislative cycle, regulatory updates, and industry trends, we’re able to keep our fingers on the pulse of member needs. Our proactive approach is baked into our Authority DNA.”

As training manager, Thomas aims to continue providing outstanding training while expanding the Authority’s streaming and online content, adding value and new resources for the membership. His collaborative approach and member-focused mindset position him well to guide the Authority into the future, building upon the work of past teammates. “I appreciate both Joe Eynon, our recently retired training manager, and Carl Sandstrom, our recently retired business projects manager,” said Thomas. “They both had a tremendous impact on my career development, particularly as it comes to working with our Learning Management System and other Authority technology.”

Congratulations, Ryan, on your well-deserved promotion!

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