Gloria Ortiz-Rivera

Career Pathway Site Director

gloria.ortizrivera@readyCT.org

Gloria became a member of the ReadyCT team in 2019, contributing 25+ of experience and dedication to youth-focused workforce development. 

Throughout her career, Gloria has held diverse roles in both corporate and nonprofit organizations, all aimed at preparing young individuals for postsecondary education, military service, apprenticeships, and employment opportunities. 

Gloria’s remarkable professional trajectory has afforded her the privilege of collaborating closely with state and local leaders, engaging with workforce investment boards, fostering partnerships with postsecondary institutions, and interacting with industry advisory boards, Fortune 500 business leaders, and owners of closely held corporations. Her hallmark is establishing connections, cultivating stakeholder relationships, and building community bonds, and often her efforts result in securing resources to sustain or advance the work. Her unwavering dedication to enhancing the lives of young individuals and fostering regional prosperity remains steadfast. As an educator, youth mentor, and advocate for workforce development, she is wholeheartedly committed to paving the way for success, nurturing growth, and profoundly impacting every individual and community she encounters.

Gloria’s passion for education extends into academia. She has served as an adjunct professor at Goodwin College and co-taught courses at the University of Saint Joseph (West Hartford, CT). More recently, she served as a panelist for both AdvancED and Measured Progress, Inc. on the International and National Bias and Sensitivity Review panels.

Gloria holds a doctoral degree in education from the University of Hartford, a master’s degree from Minot State University, and a bachelor’s degree from Springfield College.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Gloria is a devoted plant enthusiast, currently immersed in writing her debut book, and actively pursuing the art of playing the guitar. She and her husband, Jose, live in Wethersfield, CT, and take pride in being the parents of two sons, Joshua and Jonathan.

“I consider myself an advocate for young adults and believe in the power of quality education and training. As an English language learner, education was my road out of poverty; it was the ‘engine of opportunity’ that propelled me to where I am today. I am honored to be a part of the ReadyCT team and the work that engages, educates, and transforms the lives of our future generations.”