Team

A veteran and former U.S. Army officer, he draws upon years of military leadership, operational discipline, and mission-driven execution to transform that realization into action. His role focuses on ensuring that the organization maintains strong internal standards, regulatory compliance, and responsible stewardship of donor and partner support.

Phil works closely with the broader leadership team to ensure that WAJA operates with the discipline and accountability expected of a mission-driven organization working at the intersection of workforce development and infrastructure.

Gerard serves as our senior Executive Director, bringing decades of distinguished leadership across the military, the church, and national service. Widely respected for his integrity, wisdom, and steady guidance, he has built a legacy of principled leadership grounded in discipline, faith, and a deep commitment to community development.

Throughout his career, Gerard has led with vision and accountability—mentoring emerging leaders, strengthening institutions, and championing initiatives that create lasting impact. As our Senior Director, he provides strategic oversight and governance, ensuring the organization remains mission-focused, operationally sound, and positioned for sustainable growth. His leadership reflects a lifelong dedication to service and the belief that strong institutions empower strong communities.

Homero serves as the Partnerships Director, bringing extensive experience in building grassroots organizations and advancing breakthrough opportunities on a global scale. Throughout his career, he has helped transform bold ideas into impactful initiatives—connecting communities, mobilizing partnerships, and driving sustainable growth across diverse regions.

Known for his generosity, thoughtful leadership, and boundless energy, Homero approaches every endeavor with both heart and strategy. He is deeply committed to expanding access to opportunity and empowering individuals at the local level while thinking globally. His perspective and passion strengthen the organization’s mission and help position it for meaningful, long-term impact. His work focuses on building relationships with investors, industry partners, and philanthropic organizations that support the growth of WAJA’s automotive workforce platform.

Aisha serves as an Executive Director, bringing years of experience as a thoughtful leader and a fierce global advocate for women’s empowerment. Throughout her career, she champions initiatives that expand access to education, economic opportunity, and leadership development for women across diverse communities.

Respected for her strategic insight and unwavering commitment to equity, Aisha combines compassion with bold advocacy. She believes that when women are equipped with skills, resources, and a voice, entire societies thrive. Her global perspective and principled leadership strengthen the organization’s mission and ensure that empowerment remains both inclusive and transformative.

Jose serves as our Logistics Director, bringing years of experience building and strengthening organizations with vision and purpose. He has a natural ability to cultivate meaningful relationships, establish strong networks, and connect people across sectors—turning collaboration into measurable progress.

Charismatic and mission-driven, Jose leads with authenticity and heart. As a devoted single father raising twin teenage daughters, he carries a personal commitment to empowering young women with opportunity, confidence, and access to pathways that shape strong futures. His leadership perspective, grounded in both professional expertise and lived experience, adds depth, compassion, and strategic insight to the organization’s work.