Angel Sanchez Jr. brings experience in inclusive employment practices and manufacturing innovation to statewide role advising governor on workforce policy.
Riverside CEO Appointed to State Workforce Development Board
Angel Sanchez Jr. brings experience in inclusive employment practices and manufacturing innovation to statewide role advising governor on workforce policy.
Gov. Gavin Newsom has appointed Angel Sanchez Jr., CEO of Riverside-based Phenix Technology Inc., to the California State Workforce Development Board, recognizing his two decades of leadership in inclusive hiring and manufacturing innovation.
Sanchez will advise the governor on building a resilient, equitable and future-ready labor force for California. His appointment comes as the state seeks to modernize workforce systems and expand career pathways for underserved populations.
"This is an opportunity to help strengthen and modernize our state's workforce systems so that every region, industry and individual can thrive," Sanchez said. "We must align training with economic demand, expand employer partnerships, and ensure that Californians, regardless of background, have access to quality careers."
Sanchez leads Phenix Technology, a Riverside manufacturer of American-made fire helmets founded in 1972 by two firefighters seeking to create safer head protection for emergency personnel. The company, which has become a national model for inclusive employment, produces three helmet styles: traditional leather, composite and modern thermoplastic. More than 30% of the company鈥檚 workforce identifies as neurodiverse or has faced significant barriers to employment.
The company recently received the W.O. Lawton Business Leadership Award from the National Association of Workforce Boards and was named Innovator of the Year by the Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce for its award-winning workplace culture and Lean Manufacturing philosophy.
Beyond his corporate role, Sanchez founded Phenix Gateway, a nonprofit organization that provides hands-on training and career pathways for individuals with intellectual, developmental and physical disabilities. The organization evolved from Phenix Technology鈥檚 internal workforce readiness initiative.
Sanchez currently serves on the Riverside County Workforce Development Board and has contributed to initiatives including the Governor鈥檚 Master Plan for Career Education and the Launch Apprenticeship Network. He has worked with the Department of Rehabilitation and the State Council on Developmental Disabilities to expand employment pathways for historically underserved populations.
More information: Visit phenixfirehelmets.com to learn more about Phenix Technology and its mission.
The City of Riverside Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department has opened seven public pools for the 2025 summer season, running June 9 through August 14.
