Chera Gallagher , MM
Chera Gallagher, MM is a results-driven management professional with over 28 years of experience in social and human services, workforce development, and nonprofit leadership. Holding both a Bachelor of Science in Management and a Master’s in Management from the University of Phoenix, she has spent 14 years in leadership roles supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Chera is recognized for her integrity, strong leadership, and exceptional work ethic, bringing both strategic vision and hands-on expertise to the organizations she serves.
Currently, Chera serves as a Career Advisor in workforce development in New Jersey, working for a company contracted to provide Career Services under the WIOA grant. In this role, she helps unemployed or underemployed individuals gain access to training programs for in-demand fields such as CDL, LPN, medical assistant, billing and coding, CompTIA certifications, and more. Chera guides participants through program enrollment and ensures funding support—either full or partial—for their training. Her personal experience navigating career transitions has given her deep empathy for clients, allowing her to connect authentically and provide meaningful support as they take steps toward stable, fulfilling employment.
Passionate about empowering others, Chera combines her professional knowledge with a people-first approach to leadership. She thrives in collaborative, inclusive work environments and is dedicated to developing programs that enhance workforce capabilities, promote inclusivity, and support long-term organizational success. Having transitioned from a toxic work culture to one where ideas are valued, she brings insight, compassion, and leadership to help individuals rebuild their careers while contributing to the mission of strengthening the community.
• Critical Thinking (MM)
• University of Phoenix - AAB
• National Society of Leadership and Success
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my children. I became a mother at a young age and had my children while I was still trying to figure out my own direction in life. As they grew older, I realized I was repeating things that had been told to me about education, financial stability, and building a better future, but I was not fully living those principles myself.
I began to realize that children learn more from what they see than from what they are told. That was a powerful moment for me, because my children were watching me.
At the time, I only had a high school diploma, yet I was stressing the importance of education. That became my turning point. I asked myself how could I expect my children to respect what I was telling them if I was not willing to pursue it myself.
From that moment on, I committed to continuing my education. It has not been easy, but it has been worth it. My journey has been about practicing what I preach and becoming the example, not just for my children, but for the generations that follow.
Today, I work in workforce development helping others improve their lives, and I am continuing my own education at the doctoral level. The lesson that changed my life still guides me every day.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Be confident in your abilities.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Remain vigilant and prayerful. Whatever that looks like - meditation, affirmation, or just whatever that looks like for an individual.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
She highlights a challenging labor market for job seekers and the growing need to tailor resumes and use keyword strategies. Opportunities include training pathways in trades and other in‑demand industries and the expanding ecosystem of women entrepreneurs and networks that support career mobility.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Connection is most important to me. I value anything that involves connection - whether it's going out and listening to music or just being with people that I love and appreciate, and that I can tell love and appreciate me. I'm up for trying new things and going different places I've never been before, just as long as it's with genuine people. In my work, I'm passionate about the impact I make in people's lives and helping members of our community get back on their feet. I value working in an inclusive, non-divisive environment where we listen to each other's ideas and collaborate well.