District 20 photo
Kelly Loehrer is District 10’s Position Management and Clean California Grant Coordinator in Maintenance.
By Bob Highfill
District 10 encampment coordinator
Kelly Loehrer helps job candidates navigate the challenging state of California hiring process and supports partner agencies applying for Clean California grant funding to improve their communities.
As District 10’s Position Management and Clean California Grant Coordinator in Maintenance, Kelly brings empathy and dedication to her work, embodying Caltrans’ core values: collaboration, equity, innovation, integrity and people first. Her personal experiences inspire her to go above and beyond, understanding more than most the impact a helping hand can have.
“My senior year of high school, we were actually homeless,” she said. “So, I know how it is to be down-and-out. I understand how hard it is to get out of that situation and get back on your feet.”
Despite hardships, Kelly was determined to build a better life. She earned her high school diploma while homeless. A turning point came when her then-husband’s father offered her a place to stay. With a stable home, Kelly was able to support and care for her family. She worked at a big-box retailer, often on weekends and holidays, leaving little time for her family. Acting on a tip, she applied for a position at Caltrans and accepted an Office Tech role with District 10.
Kelly has flourished at Caltrans. She was promoted to staff services analyst and now serves as Analyst II in her 11th year with the District. Kelly enjoys a much better work-life balance and is proud of her contributions, especially those related to Clean California.
Recently, Kelly helped three partners in District 10 — Stockton, Modesto and Calaveras County — secure portions of $25 million in Community Cleanup and Employment Pathway grants. She hopes the CCEP program continues.
“One aspect of Clean California is helping the disadvantaged hopefully get jobs,” she said. “That resonates with me. I like to do anything I can to try and help.”
Kelly shares her story so others facing challenges know there is hope and encourages a less judgmental perspective on homelessness.
“It’s hard,” she said. “You have to ask for help and keep trying and hope you find someone who cares.”
Kelly continues to strive for self-improvement. She is currently studying accounting at Modesto Junior College. Originally from Southern California, Kelly grew up in Patterson. She has two children and two stepchildren, and lives in Manteca.