Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a series of appointments across various state agencies. These appointments include roles in transportation, housing, workforce development, court reporting, pilot commissions, and contractor licensing.
Tamie McGowen from Folsom has been appointed as the Senior Advisor for Strategy and Operations at the California State Transportation Agency. McGowen’s career includes positions at the California Department of Transportation and she holds a degree in Communications from California State University, Sacramento. Her new role does not require Senate confirmation and offers a compensation of $195,708.
Christina Mun of Alameda will serve as Deputy Secretary of Housing Finance at the California Business, Consumer Services, and Housing Agency. Mun has previously worked with LeSar Holdings and held various roles within the City of Oakland’s Housing and Community Development Department. She holds degrees from the University of California, Berkeley and San Diego. Her position also does not require Senate confirmation with a compensation of $191,112.
Joelle Ball-Straight from Elk Grove is appointed Chief Deputy Director at the California Workforce Development Board. She has been with the board since 2016 and earned her degree from California State University, Sacramento. This appointment does not require Senate confirmation with a compensation of $159,660.
Alison Saltonstall from Citrus Heights joins the California Court Reporters Board. A current court reporter at Sacramento Superior Court, Saltonstall serves as President of the Sacramento Official Court Reporters Association. Her position requires Senate confirmation with a per diem compensation.
Heatherlynn Gonzalez from Los Angeles is also appointed to the California Court Reporters Board. A Certified Shorthand Reporter since 2011, Gonzalez is affiliated with the California Deposition Reporters Association. Her appointment requires Senate confirmation with a per diem compensation.
Roy Mathur from Hercules is appointed to the Board of Pilot Commissioners for San Francisco Bays without compensation but requiring Senate confirmation. Mathur brings experience as Captain and Wharf Master for PBF Energy – Martinez Refining Company.
Steven Panelli from San Mateo continues his service on the Contractors State Licensing Board where he has served since 2021. Panelli’s background includes roles in plumbing inspection within San Francisco’s Department of Building Inspection.
Henry Nutt III from American Canyon is reappointed to the Contractors State Licensing Board where he has served since 2024. Nutt works as Preconstruction Executive for Southland Industries.
Alan Guy from Lafayette is reappointed to this board as well where he has served since 2022. Guy leads Anvil Builders Inc., having previously worked with Webcor Builders Inc.
These appointments reflect Governor Newsom’s continued efforts to fill key state agency positions with experienced professionals across various sectors.
