Neighborhood Defender Service
Company Employees
Andrea Bridgewater
Chief Operating Officer
Verified
Andrea Bridgewater is a dynamic and results-driven operations executive with a proven track record of driving organizational efficiency, optimizing processes, and leading large-scale strategic initiatives. With extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, public defense, and workforce development, she has successfully transformed organizations through holistic strategic vision, stakeholder engagement, and data-driven decision-making. Andrea has spearheaded major expansions, optimized operational workflows, and led multi-market union negotiations. She successfully launched new offices, established security and remote work policies, and drove cost-saving initiatives such as IT transitions and digital modernization. Previously, as COO of Experience Works, she led a nationwide transition to a remote work model, saving $300K annually, and secured millions in critical funding to develop workforce training programs. Andrea’s leadership extends beyond operations—she is deeply committed to community advocacy, workforce development, and diversity and inclusion. She has served on national committees, contributed to research on workforce policy, and volunteers for initiatives that promote leadership, education, and social equity. A nominee for the Athena Leadership Award, Andrea brings a unique blend of strategic vision, operational expertise, and a passion for empowering individuals and organizations to reach their full potential. She holds a Master of Administrative Science in Public Administration from Saginaw Valley State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Management and Organizational Development from Spring Arbor University.More...