Sharon Nilsson

Sharon Nilsson brings nearly two decades of experience in education and workforce development, with a deep commitment to advancing equity and social justice. She began her career as a school social worker in Northern California after earning a BA in Social Work from California State University, Chico. Over the years, she has held key leadership roles in student services, credentialing, and Career Technical Education (CTE), consistently advocating for culturally responsive education.
Sharon holds an MA in Education with a concentration in Adult Education and Training, and her experience as an Associate Faculty member at Butte College has provided her valuable insight into the needs of adult learners, especially in relation to career exploration and pathway planning. She most recently played a pivotal role in launching the first Registered Apprenticeship program at the Butte County Office of Education, which focused on building equitable opportunities for learners from diverse backgrounds. Her passion for social mobility is rooted in her belief that all individuals, particularly those from marginalized populations, should have access to career pathways that empower them and strengthen the workforce.
In her personal life, Sharon enjoys thrift store shopping, collecting vintage clothing, and upcycling materials to create unique, funky fashions and costumes. She lives by the motto, “Be your authentic self,” and advocates for others to do the same, both in her professional work and personal endeavors.