Amber Pena
Amber is the Manager of Risk Management and Employee Benefits at Sacramento City Unified School District, where she brings over a decade of experience and a deep personal commitment to the wellbeing of staff, students, and the broader community. A proud parent of a student in the district, Amber’s dedication is rooted in both professional passion and personal investment—believing that every child and educator deserves the opportunity to thrive in a safe and supportive environment.
With a career that began in the private sector at Xyratex (now Seagate), Amber built a strong foundation in operational coordination, overseeing global production and managing Tier 1 Microsoft accounts. Her early internship at the American Heart Association while earning her Associate of Science in Computer Drafting and Design from ITT Technical Institute highlighted her lifelong commitment to helping others and serving community-based missions.
Amber has held several key roles at Sacramento City Unified, steadily advancing from Disability Specialist to Supervisor, and now Manager. She is known for her integrity, strategic mindset, and compassionate leadership. Her philosophy—“Positive thinking makes positive action”—guides her work daily as she collaborates to build a stronger, more resilient school system for future generations.
• ITT Technical Institute-Rancho Cordova - AS
• San Joaquin Delta College
• SUPV
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is that it has traditionally been male-dominated. However, I’ve built my career from the ground up by staying resilient, focused, and committed to growth. This experience has not only strengthened my leadership skills but also opened opportunities to pave the way for other women in the field. I see this challenge as a chance to break barriers and inspire the next generation of professionals to do the same.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is one of my core values. While I’m deeply committed to my career, it’s equally important to me to be present and engaged in my personal life—especially as a mother. Being actively involved in my son’s education and traveling with his soccer team are things I cherish. I believe that success isn't just about professional achievements, but also about showing up for the people who matter most.