Jennifer Cleary performs a variety of research and capacity-building activities.  Her current work is focused on developing industry-based intelligence and assisting policymakers to develop and implement workforce and employer engagement strategies that promote economic growth.  She managed New Jersey’s Ready for the Job initiative for several years, a project to ensure New Jersey educates qualified workers for the state’s key industries that is now an active part of Governor Corzine’s Economic Growth Strategy for the State of New Jersey (2007). In addition, Cleary has evaluated adult literacy and dislocated worker programs, managed customer satisfaction surveys for several states, and coordinated work on the New Jersey Consumer Report Card System, an interactive directory of training providers. Cleary also co-authored Helping Jobseekers Who Have Limited Basic Skills: A Guide for Workforce Development Professionals, a handbook designed to provide practical advice to One-Stop Center staff regarding how to
improve services.

Cleary has over 10 years of experience managing social service programs and spent 5 years coordinating events and projects for nonprofit organizations. Her previous experience includes working as the executive director for a shelter for homeless families in New Jersey. She also served as an events coordinator for the Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Foundation. Cleary earned her master’s degree from the Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy at Rutgers University and is currently enrolled in the Ph.D. program at the same school.