Claude Keissieh – Building the American Dream
U.S. Army civilian in Afghanistan and in Iraq Wars. Electrical Engineer. Small business owner. College professor. Community builder.
Fighting for opportunity, service, and strong communities in California’s 41st Congressional District.
Claude Keissieh is a first-generation American whose life embodies the promise of the American Dream. After marrying in 1995, he earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Electrical Engineering from C.S.U.F, building an engineering career across pharmaceuticals companies, software engineering, application development, and construction. His expertise and determination opened doors in both the private and public sectors, and his journey has been defined by service, opportunity, and faith.
In 2005, Claude joined the U.S. Army as a civilian contractor because he is a patriot and believes that when our country is at war he has a duty to serve. He deploying to Iraq for four tours and earning multiple medals for his work supporting America’s mission abroad. In 2010, he became Department of Army civilian at the rank of GS-13 after he passed the 6 months rugged training, later serving the US mission in Afghanistan, where he received additional commendations including a NATO recognition.
Claude is not a career politician and understands the needs of those the live and work in our community. He is a successful small business owner—operated a gas station, a frozen yogurt shop, and managing apartment complexes—while at the same time successfully investing in the stock market. He is also an adjunct professor at four community colleges (Norco, SBVC, Cypress, and Crafton hills) giving his students the skills needed to find meaningful and rewarding work.
In 2019, he worked with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, teaching incarcerated individuals the skills needed to become electricians and good citizens, giving them a second chance through meaningful employment.
In 2025, he joined the California Department of Transportation (CalTrans) as an Electrical Engineer to continue his public service in our beautiful State.
Faith and family are at the heart of Claude’s life. After 3 and half years of studying, In 2017 Bishop Barns handed Claude with a certificate of graduation from the Diocese of San Bernardino’s Ministry Formation Program, deepening his understanding of theology and strengthening his commitment to serve his community. His wife, a teacher assistant at Norco College, earned her Associate’s Degree in Engineering Drafting from Norco College in 2024. Their twin children are both college students at the University of California, Riverside, pursuing their own academic and professional dreams.
From classrooms to construction sites, war zones to small businesses, Claude Keissieh has lived a life dedicated to faith, service, and building opportunities. Now, he’s ready to bring that same dedication and problem-solving spirit to Congress.