Kim Bernet, VP, Operations and Finance, oversees California Competes’s internal processes, systems, and financials. She brings over 10 years of experience in financial management, non-profit administration, and operational leadership to the organization. She also has a background in government affairs, education policy, and grants management.
Before joining California Competes, Kim served as Associate Director of Administration and Government Affairs with the Exploratorium in San Francisco. There she led process improvement and financial management for the Institutional Advancement division, as well as government affairs efforts for the organization. This included securing state funding for teacher professional development programs and working with coalitions and city officials to pass ballot measures ensuring accessible arts and educational programming for the city.
She holds her Masters in Public Policy from Georgetown University, and a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of California, Santa Cruz.
What motivates you to advance California Competes’s mission?
I believe that everyone, regardless of background and circumstances, should have the ability to pursue higher education. It’s a critical tool for empowering individuals, building vibrant communities, and ensuring access to evolving workforce opportunities. I’m thrilled to be working with California Competes on efforts to improve state policy around high education, including reducing barriers and ensuring equitable access for all Californians.
