Our instructors are industry experts who design curriculum and services to meet the specific needs of companies, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations. The instructors are handpicked to ensure compatibility with each organization’s culture, and the client makes the final decision on the selection. Here are descriptions of a few of our instructors and comments from their students:

Al Wiers has a master’s degree in public administration, a master’s degree in Educational psychology and a bachelor in arts degree in economics and political science. Al worked in the public sector at the city, county and state level of government for 20 years, having a wide variety of program responsibilities in administration and human resources.

He currently is the owner of a management consulting firm that specializes in employee assistance program services. He is responsible for the design, implementation, and administration of those services.

As an adjunct faculty member at SRJC in the Business Administration department Al has taught a wide variety of management courses, including Public Personnel Administration, Performance Evaluations, Basic HR Responsibilities, Managing Change, Basic Supervisory Management, and Effective Interviewing.

“Al makes learning fun. He takes the time to make sure you understand the material.”

“I liked Al’s communication style. His style helped people feel comfortable.”

“Cool dude.”

“Al’s fantastic.”

“Al is a totally awesome instructor.”

Karen Mathre holds a masters degree in organization development from Sonoma State University. She has consulted with national clients, such as Charles Schwab & Co. and the Super Bowl XXX Host Committee, as well as many local organizations, such as Schurter, Inc., Drug Abuse Alternative Center, and the Economic Development Board. She has worked as a Financial Sales Officer for WestAmerica Bank and the Director of Organization Development & Training for the Consulting Group of Pisenti & Brinker, LLP.

Karen has designed and delivered training programs on leadership, facilitation, and consulting skills to international audiences. As an adjunct faculty for SRJC, she has taught courses such as Motivating & Empowering Employees, Effective Leadership at Medtronic/AVE, and Managing a Distributed Workforce.

“Karen is one of the most inspirational instructors I have come across. Her style and openness is key to successful learning.”

“Karen has been a joy as an instructor. Students respect her and learn from her.”

“Karen is a great instructor. She is charismatic and knows how to create good rapport with the class.”

“Karen’s enthusiasm was contagious.”

“Karen facilitated with ease and humor. She brought out the best in individuals.”

John Cookus has over 30 years combined experience in human resources and organizational consulting and training. His consulting and training background has been in business, nonprofit and local city and county government. John has a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in psychology and has used this expertise as a personal business coach. He created and teaches the supervisory ethics course at SRJC.

“Absolutely a great job. John made me want to come to class.”

“John is committed to having his students learn the material.”

“I really enjoyed the class and a lot had to do with John. John is a very pleasant person and I look forward to taking more courses with him.”

“Great instructor! Professional. I respect the fact that John ‘walks the talk’. ”

“I would take more courses from John.”