Sebelius appoints Louis Ruiz to Workforce Network Board
Connecting employers with trained workers key to strengthening economy

To ensure the Kansas workforce is prepared to meet the needs of a growing global economy, Governor Kathleen Sebelius has appointed State Representative Louis E. Ruiz to the Workforce Network of Kansas Board.

“The Kansas workforce must be ready to compete with workers not just in neighboring states, but around the globe,” Sebelius said. “Helping Kansans obtain the skills they need and connecting them with the right businesses strengthens our economy and lays the foundation for an even stronger future.”

The Workforce Network of Kansas Board connects job-seekers, educational institutions and Kansas employers. Under the umbrella of the Department of Commerce, the network includes multiple workforce centers located throughout the state. The goal is to ensure a seamless, integrated network in which Kansas workers receive job-specific training and Kansas businesses find the well-trained employees they need.

Ruiz, Kansas City, retired in 2003 after 30 years with Lucent Technologies and its corporate predecessors Western Electric and AT&T. 

During his tenure with AT&T and Lucent Technologies, Ruiz was selected by corporate management to organize and lead the local HISPA chapter to promote career advancement and leadership skills training for minority employees. He also served as a mentor, speaker and panelist at national HISPA conferences and presented numerous motivational seminars titled “Increasing Human Effectiveness” at AT&T and Lucent Technologies facilities throughout the country.

Ruiz has been a longtime member of the Hispanic Media Association, a nonprofit organization in Kansas City that provides post-secondary educational scholarships for Hispanic students preparing for careers in print and broadcast media.

Ruiz currently represents the 32nd District in the Kansas House of Representatives, having been first elected in 2004.  Within the House, Ruiz is the ranking minority member on the Commerce and Labor Committee.  He also serves on the Federal and State Affairs Committee and the Government Efficiency and Technology Committee.

Ruiz replaces Representative Candy Ruff on this board, and serves at the pleasure of the Governor.

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