Elizabeth Auer has been with the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) for three years and serves as a Staff Services Manager I in the Consumer Affairs Branch, based in Sacramento. She manages a team of analysts who review consumer complaint trends and provide feedback to improve the efficiency of the complaint process.
Auer describes her role as directly impacting consumers. “What we do directly makes a difference in consumers’ lives. Consumer Affairs is on the front lines, working directly with the community. How we handle calls and what information we communicate makes the difference when assisting with high-ticketed issues. When we help even just one person resolve a problem, that’s a win for us,” she said.
She shared career advice that has guided her work: “Don’t chase job titles – build skills. Titles can change, companies can restructure, and industries evolve. But the skills you intentionally build stay with you everywhere you go, and those are what make a difference.”
Outside of work, Auer enjoys outdoor activities such as golf and participates in many tournaments. When weather keeps her indoors, she works on crochet or cross stitch projects.
Auer is also professionally trained in classical dance and spends time teaching teenagers at a local studio or coaching a high school dance team. She values learning from her students while sharing her passion for dance.
Her favorite book is “Letting Go” by David R. Hawkins. She recommends it for its approach to overcoming negativity and fostering spiritual development: “The book describes a simple and effective means by which to let go of obstacles to enlightenment and become free of negativity. It’s an incredible book that enhances spiritual development. Anyone can benefit from reading this book, which can change your perspective and challenge you to look at life through a different lens.”
