#United States #Sacramento #Calkin Public Affairs #California High-Speed Rail #Melissa Figueroa

Calkin Public Affairs Welcomes Melissa Figueroa

Calkin Public Affairs (Calkin PA) has recently welcomed Melissa Figueroa as its Senior Vice President, a strategic move expected to elevate the firm's transportation practice and overall client service. With over twenty years of extensive experience in media relations, public affairs, and crisis communications, Figueroa is well-equipped to lead a diverse portfolio of clients in California, particularly in the transportation sector.

Richard Stapler, Chief Client Officer at Calkin PA, expressed enthusiasm for Figueroa's addition to the team. “Melissa's deep experience in media, communications, and transportation policy, along with her commitment to nurturing future talent, makes her a key inclusion in our expanding team,” he said. Her impressive track record highlights her ability to remain composed and focused during crises, underscoring her suitability for public-facing projects.

Before joining Calkin PA, Figueroa worked at Shaw Yoder Antwih Schmelzer Lange, where she contributed to advocacy and public affairs for a multitude of clients over a two-year period. Her previous experience includes roles in both the Brown and Newsom administrations, notably as the Chief of Strategic Communications for the California High-Speed Rail Authority—an enormous infrastructure initiative in the U.S. Under her guidance, the project successfully secured a historic $3.1 billion in federal funding, reshaping public perception on a national level.

Figueroa’s prowess also includes her tenure as the Deputy Secretary for Communications and Planning at the California State Transportation Agency. Here, she spearheaded communication strategies that led to the successful passage of Senate Bill 1, marking a significant increase in state transportation funding for the first time in two decades. Her contributions during major infrastructure projects, such as the opening of the new span of the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge and its demolition, are particularly noteworthy, showcasing her expertise in managing complex logistical challenges.

Earlier in her career, Figueroa served as a press secretary for an active State Senator and honed her skills as a television news producer. Figueroa holds a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.

Calkin PA continues to enhance its capabilities with a growing and diverse client base. In the past year, the team has experienced significant expansion, more than doubling its size to accommodate the increasing demands of clients. The organization is poised for even more growth with additional team members expected to join shortly.

About Calkin Public Affairs

Calkin Public Affairs, based in Sacramento, is a premier public affairs firm specializing in strategic campaign development. With over 25 years of experience in politics and public relations, it aims to deliver transformative outcomes for clients positioned throughout various sectors in California. The organization's adeptness at navigating the complexities of public affairs, combined with a team of seasoned professionals like Figueroa, solidifies its reputation as a leader in the industry.