Martin Barrera supports and leads the negotiation and implementation of key workforce programs at Jobs to Move America to ensure racial, gender and economic equity. Prior to JMA, Martin taught physics and ethnic studies (amongst other courses) for nearly a decade at a small charter school in Lincoln Heights, Los Angeles.
During his time as an educator, Martin rose to positions of leadership to improve curriculum and instruction for students across grades 6-12, by acting as Department Chair of the Science Department and later the Social Studies Department. In addition, he was highly active within his teachers union, making significant contributions as Union Vice President during the tumultuous distance learning collective bargaining efforts early on in the pandemic.
Martin continues his support of education efforts outside of the classroom as a board member for the Ida B. Wells Education Project. To unwind, Martin enjoys hiking, singing karaoke, listening to music, herbalism, reading, binging media and embracing self-care as an act of healing and resistance.