I’m Kelly Vedi, and I enjoy making complicated systems serve people better.
I write about public systems and work to expand youth apprenticeships in the United States.
Previously, I led finance and government operations policy for a Santa Clara County supervisor in Silicon Valley. I created, researched, and recommended public policy. Before that, I was the Director of Education and Workforce Development at the Silicon Valley Organization (SVO) Foundation. I founded Strive San Jose, a workforce education program that connects Silicon Valley’s businesses to its school districts. This partnership creates career pathways for students and helps employers implement demand-driven workforce development.
I’m a proud alumna of the Harvard Kennedy School of Government and the University of Florida. My Masters focused on education policy and collective impact. At UF, I studied History, Classical Studies, and Philosophy when I wasn’t cheering on the Gators to win their 3rd National Championship. Just kidding—I really like the classroom. Go Gators! 🐊
When I’m not writing, you can find me solving the NYT word games, reading a stack of books, and spending time with my family.
My Writing
A Policymaker’s Checklist
Selected as a winner in Apolitical's 2020 American Public Servant Writing Competition by the Center for Civic Impact and the Harvard Kennedy School Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation.
High School Could Be Epic
A three part series where I discuss visions for career learning in high school in anime. Seriously.
Fair Play
An argument against using ‘Fair Play’ to justify unethical tactics in politics.
Time & Productivity
I summarize and contextualizes high-quality research on student productivity in middle school and high school.
Get in touch.
Are you working at bridging the gaps between our education systems and employers and committed to expanding work-based learning and partnerships with education and training providers?
Are you working on government performance and innovation?
Or do you share my interests and want to talk to someone about your next steps or book recommendations?
If so, please reach out, I’d love to chat.