We Are SBCERA: John Michaelson
Meet John Michaelson, SBCERA retiree, former SBCERA Trustee, and former President of the Retired Employees of San Bernardino County (RESBC).
After more than 20 years in retirement, John has continued to pursue the activities and experiences that are meaningful to him. From competing on horseback and serving with the Sheriff’s Mounted Search and Rescue to kayaking across the country and much more, John has made the most of his retirement years.
John began his public service career in the early 1970s with what was then known as the Welfare Department. Over the course of his 30-year career, he served in a variety of roles throughout San Bernardino County, including as a Budget Analyst in the County Administrative Office and later as a Purchasing Agent. He continued to advance throughout his career, ultimately retiring as the County’s Chief Executive Officer in 2003.
For John, where that journey began holds special meaning. “It’s kind of amazing that I started with what was then called the welfare department and did get involved with the food stamp program. But then I was coming at it from a different direction … somebody who had actually been a participant in the program.”
John’s commitment to public service continued well into retirement. He served as President of the Retired Employees of San Bernardino County (RESBC) and, from 2017 to 2020, as the Retired Member Alternate Trustee on the SBCERA Board of Retirement. Through his continued involvement, John gained an even greater understanding of the important decisions made on behalf of SBCERA members and the responsibility of helping safeguard the retirement fund for current and future retirees.
Reflecting on his own journey, John shares this message with those who are just beginning their careers and their journey with SBCERA:
“If you just so happen to be watching this and you have just started with one of the organizations that’s part of SBCERA, I congratulate you because you now have in front of you the opportunity to make whatever you want to for yourself and your family.”
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