Wendy Deras has dedicated her work the last 30 years to safe and competent patient care, teaching, curriculum design, management and leadership in the nursing field, with the last 20 years in Southern California. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Science in Nursing from Franklin University as well as a Master’s in Science in Nursing specializing in Nursing Education, from Wright State University, both in Ohio. Deras returned to school, completing a second master’s degree in Psychiatric/Mental Health Therapy and is a Clinical Nurse Specialist in that field in the State of California. Deras attained the National League of Nursing Certification as a Certified Nurse Educator in 2009. Deras has worked at local private and public institutions serving as faculty and administration.

Deras has educated all levels, from entry-level nursing assistants to master’s entry registered nurses and from private vocational schools to higher education. She has a passion for workforce development and has trained people in all sectors, including healthcare, office occupations and service-industries. She strives to bring together the resources of funding, trainers, educational institutions, and employers to bring a more qualified workforce to Southern California and believes that the power of education can transform lives, business, and the community. She is currently an Industry Sector Manager for Health for the Inland Empire working with health partners, K12, adult schools and community colleges to increase and improve health sciences program opportunities.