Pamela J. Wharton
About Pamela J. Wharton
Pamela J. Wharton serves as the Deputy Country Program Director at the Solidarity Center in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, a position she has held since 2019. With over 15 years of experience in the public sector, she has expertise in labor exploitation within the fisheries sector and global seafood supply chains.
Work at Solidarity Center
Pamela J. Wharton has served as the Deputy Country Program Director at Solidarity Center since 2019. In this role, she operates from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, where she oversees programs that focus on labor rights and social justice. Her work involves collaborating with local organizations to promote fair labor practices and improve working conditions. Wharton’s leadership contributes to the Solidarity Center's mission of empowering workers and advocating for their rights in various sectors.
Previous Experience at U.S. Department of Labor
Before joining Solidarity Center, Wharton worked at the U.S. Department of Labor for six years, from 2013 to 2019, as a Senior International Relations Officer. In this capacity, she engaged in international labor issues and policy development. Earlier in her tenure at the Department, she served as an Equal Opportunity Specialist and Compliance Officer from 2006 to 2010, focusing on compliance with labor laws and regulations.
Background in Community Development
Wharton has a background in community development, having worked as a Community-Based Organizational Development Volunteer with the Peace Corps in Krabi, Thailand, from 2011 to 2013. This experience involved working closely with local communities to enhance organizational capacity and promote sustainable development practices.
Education and Expertise
Pamela J. Wharton holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from the University of North Texas, where she focused on performance measurement and program evaluation. She also earned a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies from The University of Texas at Austin. Her academic background supports her expertise in labor exploitation, particularly within the fisheries sector and global seafood supply chains.
Professional Experience and Skills
With over 15 years of professional experience in the public sector, Wharton has developed a strong skill set in labor rights advocacy and program management. Her work has involved living and working with diverse cultures, enhancing her ability to navigate complex international labor issues. Her experience spans various roles, including interim internship coordinator and aquatic coordinator, showcasing her versatility in different professional environments.