Paige Bongiorno
"What drives me are the possibilities to innovate and make a real difference, despite the challenges."
I love what I do. I'm the Career Outreach Manager for the Idaho Division of Human Resources.
I help address workforce shortages and find innovative solutions to recruit and retain employees.
I never anticipated a career in public service. Seeing people struggle to get training or overcome barriers to employment really motivated me. I get so much joy from helping people discover their passions and knock down obstacles in their way. Now, I can't imagine doing anything else. I want to be the change for every worker and for everyone to have the chance to succeed.
The relationships I've built and directly impacting people's lives have been a real highlight. Recently, I helped a military family get a fellowship with the state. Seeing them walk into the office on their first day, and congratulating them in person - that feeling doesn't compare to anything.
One experience that profoundly shaped me was having dinner with a friend who was unsure of their career path. After learning about their interests in computers and law enforcement, I suggested cybersecurity. A few days later, they called to say they’d enrolled in a program. Two years after that, they graduated and launched a cybersecurity career. Moments like that fill me with purpose.
Looking ahead, I want to create new pathways into public service through apprenticeships, internships, and skills-based hiring. I envision working on workforce issues at the national level, using my voice and relationships to be a catalyst for change across the country. Collaboration between education, government, and industry will be crucial.
What drives me are the possibilities to innovate and make a real difference, despite the challenges. I've been doubted because of my alternative education path, but I know all journeys deserve to be celebrated. I'll keep believing in myself and creating opportunities for others to thrive.
Whether it's envisioning a new role, implementing a successful program, or helping someone pinpoint their passion - that endless potential to transform lives is what motivates me every single day.