Joseph Drake- President/CEO

Puget Sound OIC dba Puget Sound Training Center became an official 501(C)3 in 2000 under the executive leadership of Mr. Joseph Drake. Mr. Drake was born and raised in New Kensington, Pennsylvania. He watched his mother work very hard to care for him and his brothers growing up. As a young black man, he grew up passionate about fighting injustice and often found himself marching and protesting in the streets during the civil rights movement in the 50s and 60s. His love for equality for all people did not stop there. He continued to travel various parts of the states under the leadership of Dr. Leon Sullivan, founder of Opportunities Industrialization Center of America (OIC) based in Philadelphia. Puget Sound OIC dba Puget Sound Training Center birthed its formation in Washington state in 1998 under the same mission and vision of OIC of America.

Derek Drake- Associate Director

I was born and raised in Arizona, and I must say that Washington state is growing on me. It is beautiful here! I spent most of my career in the sectors of non-profit, public education, private education, higher education, and sales. I have a huge passion for learning, training, and coaching others. My role here is multi-faceted and I enjoy discovering the many ways that I am able to connect with the community and support those who seek our services. In my spare time I enjoy being with my kids, friends, napping, reading, coffee, music, and a nice nature walk outside.

Krissya Escobar- Program Manager

My name is Krissya Escobar, and I’ve been with Puget Sound Training Center for over 10 years. As the program manager, I oversee compliance with employment and training contracts. I also provide guidance, support, and supervision to case managers and instructors to ensure that services effectively meet the needs of those we serve. Originally from El Salvador, I grew up here in Washington state. My parents always spoke to me in Spanish, which has allowed me to connect with our communities in both languages. I earned my AA in Early Childhood Education, but once I began working with refugees and immigrants to help them overcome barriers and achieve their goals, I found my true passion and never looked back. It’s incredibly rewarding to help others reach their potential.

In my free time, I enjoy traveling, reading, and spending time with my son.

Vania Goncalves- Administrative Assistant II

I am Angolan and recently moved to the United States seeking security, personal and professional development. I graduated in Business Management from Gregorio Semendo University in Angola and am bilingual. Over the years, I have gained several experiences that have positively contributed to my professional development. I have always had contact with people of different nationalities, both in Angola and here in the USA.

I worked as a real estate consultant in Angola, and after that, I worked for many years as an Administrative Assistant in a non-profit organization, with the goal of helping people in Angola.

It is with great honor and satisfaction that I am part of this great team at PSTC. I am motivated by hard work and promise to give my best contribution to the development of this great organization.

Kelly Cao- Administrative Assistant I

I moved to United States in 2009 from China with my family and have stayed in Seattle ever since. I recently graduated from the University of Washington. Coming from an immigrant family, I understand the challenges that can come with navigating systems, language barriers, and access to opportunity. I’ve seen firsthand how access to practical training can make a huge difference in someone’s ability to find stable employment. Before joining Puget Sound Training Center, I had experience working with students who did not speak English at home. That experience has taught me the importance of patience, clear communication, and creating a welcoming space where people feel comfortable asking questions and getting support. I enjoy being part of a team that helps individuals build confidence and move towards meaningful employment. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with friends, trying new cafe or restaurants, playing games, or catching up on shows. 

Alan Khozhiev- Employment Specialist

My name is Alan Khozhiev. Outside of work, I enjoy painting and playing volleyball, which help me stay creative, focused, and balanced. Originally from Moscow, Russia, I began my career in the U.S. as a delivery driver with FedEx Ground. That experience gave me a firsthand understanding of hard work, and the challenges people face when starting over in a new country. It helped me better relate to the clients I work with today, many of whom are also navigating major life transitions. I hold a degree in Law Enforcement from the Belgorod Law Institute of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation. My education provided me with strong organizational skills, a commitment to punctuality, and a high level of precision in documentation, which support my work in the public services field. Looking ahead, I plan to continue my legal education in the U.S. by attending law school.

Iuliia Iaryna– Employment Specialist

I have worked across different continents with people of diverse cultural, religious, and social backgrounds. My name is Iuliia, and I’m originally from Ukraine. This experience shared my ability to connect with others through empathy, respect, and open communication. I genuinely enjoy working with people and building meaningful, human centered relationships. For as long as I can remember, I have dreamed of having a career that brings real value and positive impact to others. Working in a community-focused organization like Puget Sound Training Center has made that dream a reality. I’m motivated by service, learning, and collaboration, and I strive to create welcoming and inclusive environments. I believe that meaningful work begins with empathy and understanding, and a shared sense of purpose.

Dinvuandidi Berenice Nsaku Kopela- Employment Specialist

A trilingual Case Manager at Puget Sound Training Center, fluent in Portuguese, Lingala, and English. Originally from Luanda, Angola, I moved to the U.S. in 2023 with my family seeking safety and opportunity. I hold a technical degree in financial management from UNIMAIS College in Brazil and I am currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree at Highline College to become a Software Developer. I use my experience from roles at ADP Brazil and Benassi São Paulo, where I developed strong skills in customer service, purchasing, and systems management. My work today focuses on supporting immigrants in overcoming barriers, accessing education, and finding stable employment. I am passionate about uplifting my community, actively participating in local events, mentoring others, and advocating for integration and empowerment. In my free time, I enjoy reading, music, and spending time with loved ones while staying engaged in community development and self-growth.

Daveen Avelino- Employment Specialist

I’m originally from Spokane and was raised in the small town of Brewster, Washington. I am bilingual in English and Spanish and have more than 20 years of experience working with families and communities. My career began with Head Start, where I started as a classroom aide, then became a Family Advocate, and later a preschool teacher after earning my Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education.

After relocating to the Kent area in 2017, I gained valuable experience in management and data entry before joining PSTC as an Employment Specialist. I’m passionate about helping clients build confidence, develop new skills, and achieve meaningful, long-term career success. I take pride in being part of a team that shares my commitment to supporting others and making a positive impact in the community.

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my children and grandchildren, going for walks, cooking, watching movies, and exploring new places.

Imelda Chavez- Employment Specialist

I am originally from Irapuato Guanajuato, México. I came to the United States myself twenty years ago, considering the opportunity to secure a better quality of life and education. I have my AAS-T Degree in ECE at Renton Technical College in Renton Washington. My first experience involved working as a volunteer as a Teacher Assistant in Highlands Elementary School in Renton Washington. As a volunteer I learned to work with teachers and special education students, was a challenge and a successful experience inside and outside the classroom. In Puget Sound Training Center, as Case Manager & Youth Mentor for almost one year, it introduced me to put in practice my knowledge on general office procedures, customer service and telephone etiquette to the public, management and organizational skills and time management. My strengths and skills revolve around the capability to both communicate and execute some of the client plans. I use skills like critical thinking and empathy to make clients feel empowered and at ease. Also, flexible and creative when designing client plans. In Puget Sound Training Center, I enjoy helping people navigate difficult situations. I also appreciate the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with clients, providing them with support and guidance throughout their journey.

Sultan Durani- Employment Specialist

Originally from Afghanistan, I relocated to the United States with my wife and two children in October 2023, seeking a brighter future. I hold a bachelor’s degree in social science from Kandahar University and am multilingual in Pashto, Dari, and English. With over 11 years of professional experience, I’ve worked extensively in migration and education. For six years, I supported refugees and immigrants as a Refugee Officer with MoRR and IOM, and as a Case Manager with INTERSOS—helping individuals access resources, navigate resettlement, and rebuild their lives with dignity. I also spent five years managing education-focused programs aimed at supporting educators, engaging communities, and improving the quality of learning environments. Currently, I serve as a Case Manager at Puget Sound Training Center, where I support individuals and families through skill-building and career guidance. I’m passionate about helping others create stable, empowered lives and thrive in their new communities.

Sandra Castaneda- Community Resource Specialist

My name is Sandra Castaneda, and I’m originally from El Salvador, where I studied accounting and spent 10 years in the Girl Scouts, which sparked my lifelong commitment to community service. I immigrated to the U.S. in 1993 and worked in various jobs while raising five daughters. My own challenges—language barriers, low self-esteem, and limited guidance—shaped my deep empathy for others. I pursued education at North Seattle Community College, where I earned a certificate in accounting in 2019, despite the odds. I now work as a Case Manager at Puget Sound Training Center, supporting over 30 clients from diverse backgrounds, helping them overcome barriers to employment and integration. My lived experience allows me to truly understand their struggles. I’ve also trained with El Centro de la Raza and WALEN, volunteered during the Immigration Relief Fund, and now serve as a community ambassador with OneAmerica. I believe in courage, compassion, and education as tools for change.

Nick Flesch- Instructor

My name is Nick Flesch. I live in the south end of Seattle with my wonderful wife, our two amazing kids, and a pretty good pair of cats. I have spent 15 years in social services, working in a wide variety of positions over that time. I love live music and all of the nature surrounding Seattle.

Michele Lizama- Instructor

As a Warehouse/Forklift Instructor, I’ve dedicated my career to helping others succeed through hands-on training and education. With a strong background in warehouse logistics, community advocacy, and service, I’m passionate about empowering individuals and supporting their personal and professional growth. I’m committed to guiding my students toward career advancement and long-term success in the industry. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family. We love outdoor activities and exploring all the natural beauty that Washington state has to offer.