Amy Faulkner – EDD Chief Deputy Director

Amy is a strategic and visionary public servant with more than 25 years of experience in California state government. Appointed by Governor Gavin Newsom in 2022, she currently serves as Chief Deputy Director  supporting the Director in overseeing one of the largest public benefit systems in the nation—with nearly 10,000 employees and a $24 billion annual budget (2024–2025).

Amy’s journey began as an Office Technician, rising through the ranks to become a Research Analyst, Division Chief, Deputy Director, and now Chief Deputy. While leading the Labor Market Information Division (LMID), she spearheaded data-driven strategies to inform workforce development, economic planning, and career exploration statewide.

A nationally respected expert in labor market data, Amy has represented California by playing key roles with the LMI Institute Board and the National Association of State Workforce Agencies (NASWA), among other national and state committees.

A graduate of California State University, Sacramento, Amy holds a degree in Communications. She brings to her leadership a powerful combination of operational insight, policy expertise, and a steadfast belief in the transformative power of public service.

Ken Gomez, WSB Deputy Division Chief

Ken represents the Employment Development Department’s (EDDs) Workforce Service Branch in the Los Angeles/Coastal Division and provides administrative oversight for the America’s Job Centers of California (AJCCs) in Region 2.

Ken’s professional career includes more than 25 years in personnel, programs, and project management. Prior to his current appointment, Ken led the EDD’s Unemployment Insurance (UI) Branch’s communication, change management, and marketing activities for numerous projects and initiatives. He was instrumental in the successful customer adoption rate for UI Online. Under his leadership, the use of EDD’s self-service certification options increased from 30% to over 70% with most customers receiving their UI benefit payments within 24 hours after certifying for benefits.

 Ken’s long-range goal of public service was realized in 2009 when he joined the EDD. Initially, he adjudicated UI claims before joining the UI Branch Modernization Project team in 2010. During this time, we were able to leverage his experience from his private sector career at Delta Air Lines where he held several management positions of increasing responsibility. During his tenure, he was awarded Delta’s highest honor, induction into the Chairman’s Club for his exemplary leadership.