Born and raised in Watsonville, Rigoberto’s professional perspective is grounded in early experiences working alongside his family in the strawberry fields of the Pajaro Valley. These experiences provided a firsthand understanding of the economic instability, systemic inequities, and language barriers that shape opportunity for many working families within food and agricultural systems. Witnessing these conditions informed his commitment to community driven, systems-level solutions that move beyond short term interventions and support durable economic stability across the region he calls home.

Rigoberto holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from California State University, Sacramento, and brings over three years of experience in the nonprofit sector. Previously, as a Program Specialist, Rigoberto led workforce development and economic mobility initiatives supporting individuals facing complex barriers to employment, including justice system involvement and substance use recovery. He partnered with local employers and community organizations to expand access to sustainable jobs while supporting program operations and outcomes tracking to prioritize long term stability. Later, as a Program Coordinator, Rigoberto spearheaded a cohort based guaranteed income and financial empowerment program to strengthen financial resilience among families disproportionately impacted by economic instability. He coordinated monthly cash assistance alongside workshops and individualized financial coaching, facilitated financial literacy sessions, managed cohort operations, and fostered peer-based community building.

Recognizing the central role of agriculture in regional economic health, Rigoberto is currently pursuing an associate degree in Agribusiness at Hartnell College and an MBA at California State University, Monterey Bay. Outside of work, he enjoys exploring local coffee shops, staying active outdoors, cooking, and spending time with family and friends.