On August 6, 2025, California Governor Gavin Newsom unveiled a series of new appointments and reappointments to various state departments and councils, reinforcing leadership across workforce development, public outreach, film, and apprenticeship programs.
🔹 New Appointments
- Michelle Yoon of Los Angeles becomes Deputy Director of External Affairs and Community Outreach at the Department of Industrial Relations. With a background in public health and community engagement, Yoon brings a decade of experience to the role.
- Michael Wiafe of Sacramento steps in as Assistant Deputy Director of Workforce Policy at the California Workforce Development Board. Wiafe previously served in the Governor’s Office and has academic credentials from UC Berkeley and SDSU.
- Yetee Osunsanmi of Playa del Rey joins the California Film Commission as Deputy Director. Her career spans major entertainment firms including Paramount+ and Turner Networks, with expertise in content strategy and marketing.
🔁 Reappointments to the California Apprenticeship Council
- Frank Quintero III of Glendale, a former mayor and long-time education advocate
- Earl Restine of Spring Valley, an electrical industry veteran and business leader
- Larry Hopkins of Riverside, a seasoned trainer in operating engineering
- Hugo de la Torre of South San Francisco, director of apprenticeship programs for laborers in Northern California
These positions do not require Senate confirmation. Compensation ranges from salaried roles to per diem appointments.