John Martinez, Deputy Director of MDRC’s Health and Barriers to Employment policy area, was elected in March to be the Chair of the Board of Directors of the National Youth Employment Coalition (NYEC). He has served on the NYEC Board since 2009. 

NYEC is a national membership network that seeks to improve the effectiveness of organizations that help youth become productive citizens. Its more than 250 member organizations include direct service providers; workforce investment boards and youth councils; public agencies; local, state, and national networks; research and policy organizations; technical assistance providers; and intermediaries. NYEC sets and promotes quality standards; tracks, crafts, and influences policy; provides and supports professional development; and builds the capacity of organizations and programs. 

Martinez, who joined MDRC in 1997, is an expert in site development, site selection, and evaluation start-up, primarily focusing on programs that serve populations with barriers to employment. Currently, he is co-principal investigator on the Youth Transition Demonstration, leading the overall process analysis. He also is project director of the Youth Villages Transitional Living Evaluation and the TANF/SSI Disability Transition Project. Prior to joining MDRC, Martinez conducted research in a substance abuse treatment center and in a community health center with patients with schizophrenia. He began his career as a food stamp eligibility worker. Martinez received a master’s degree in public health from Columbia University. 

“John has a deep commitment to improving the lives of youth and young adults in our nation,” said Mala B. Thakur, NYEC Executive Director. “NYEC is fortunate to have a leader with the knowledge, experience, and dedication needed to help NYEC continue on its course to expand opportunities for youth in practice and policy. I look forward to working with John in his new role.”