Rhonda Simmons

Rhonda Simmons is an accomplished workforce development leader with more than 25 years of experience advancing inclusive economic and employment strategies across the West Coast. Prior to her private consulting, she served as Director of Workforce Development & Cultural Diversity for the San Francisco Department of Public Health, where she led initiatives to strengthen workforce pathways, advance cultural competency, and align public health systems with community-based methods.

Previously, Rhonda was Director of Workforce Development for the City and County of San Francisco’s Office of Economic and Workforce Development, leading regional strategies to connect local talent to high-growth industries and embed workforce solutions into broader economic development frameworks.

Earlier in her career, she served as Executive Director of the Seattle Jobs Initiative (SJI) and Director of Youth Substance Abuse Programs for King County Department of Public Health, where she oversaw innovative programs focused on job access, prevention, and youth well-being.

Rhonda holds dual master’s degrees in Social Work (MSW) and Public Health (MPH) from the University of Washington.

Currently, Rhonda is consulting for DART to advise and support regional workforce development strategies that connect emerging technology sectors with equitable career pathways.