Building the Workforce of Tomorrow

Ben Garcia serves as the Executive Director of the Apprenticeship Readiness Fund, bringing over 20 years of experience in the construction industry as a tradesman, contractor, and building consultant. For the past 15 years, he has focused on developing, coordinating, instructing, and managing apprenticeship readiness programs for young adults throughout Southern California, while also serving as a consultant to programs across the country.

He is certified by the North America’s Building Trades Unions in implementing the Multi-Craft Core Curriculum (MC3) through a partnership with the University of Michigan. He is also certified through OSHA’s Rocky Mountain Center for Occupational and Environmental Health in collaboration with the University of Utah School of Medicine as an OSHA Outreach Instructor.

In addition to his leadership role, Ben is deeply involved in workforce development efforts. He currently chairs the Los Angeles Unified School District’s Career and Technical Education Advisory Council and serves as a member of both the Los Angeles County and City of Los Angeles Workforce Development Boards, as well as the Southern California Apprenticeship Coordinators Association.

With a background in data science and analytics, Anastasia has spent over nine years working in higher education and workforce development. Now, as the Grants Coordinator for the Apprenticeship Readiness Fund, her passion for helping others shines through in her daily work. Anastasia excels at connecting participants to new opportunities and rewarding careers within the union trades, using her expertise to open doors for those seeking meaningful employment.

Her dedication to bridging the gap between participants and opportunities in the trades makes her an invaluable resource for individuals looking to start or advance their careers. Anastasia finds joy in helping others discover their paths, with her commitment to making a positive impact at the core of everything she does.

Driven by her own journey and informed by 17 years of experience, Nancy is deeply committed to being the mentor and advocate she once needed—someone who shows up with empathy, understanding, and the practical tools to make change possible. She knows that for many, the path toward a stable career isn’t always clear, and she works tirelessly to help individuals find direction, build confidence, and stay focused as they navigate both personal and professional challenges.

Nancy specializes in providing one-on-one support to help participants identify and break through barriers that may stand in their way. She takes a holistic approach to career development, helping individuals set realistic, attainable goals and build actionable plans that align with their strengths, needs, and aspirations. From resume development and interview preparation to job search strategies and long-term career planning, she ensures each participant is equipped with the skills and support needed to succeed—not just in the trades, but in life.

Her ability to connect with participants on a personal level while offering strategic, results-driven support makes her an invaluable resource to those beginning their journey into union careers.

Before joining the Apprenticeship Readiness Fund, Irvin served as a Community Liaison and Wildland Firefighter for the US Forestry, protecting lives, property, and natural resources. Alongside his firefighting duties, he acted as a public information officer, where he honed his skills in communication and public engagement.

As the Outreach Coordinator, Irvin applies his expertise in community outreach to connect people with opportunities in the trades. He takes pride in being a “walking, talking flyer” for the Apprenticeship Readiness Fund, dedicating himself to raising awareness across Los Angeles and Orange County. His strength in building relationships and engaging diverse communities has made him highly effective in spreading the Fund’s mission and expanding its reach.

With over seven years of experience in workforce development and program coordination, Myllex has dedicated his career to helping others discover new opportunities in the skilled trades. He has successfully guided over 600 people into careers as new, local, and first-period apprentices, with a special focus on underrepresented groups within the trades.

Now, as part of the Apprenticeship Readiness Fund, Myllex collaborates with community colleges, community-based organizations, K-12, and school districts to build career pathways. He remains dedicated to creating opportunities for men and women across Los Angeles and Orange Counties to launch their careers in the skilled trades.

Vicente Sanchez is a dedicated Program Coordinator with a passion for community outreach and advocacy. His work is rooted in a deep commitment to supporting justice-impacted individuals, both within correctional facilities and through direct engagement in the community. Vicente brings a compassionate and hands-on approach to his role, driven by a belief in the power of second chances and personal transformation.

Since 2010, Vicente has collaborated with organizations such as Criminal Gangs Anonymous, Alternative to Violence Program, Youth Adult Awareness Programs and Life Without a Crutch, helping to support programs that empower individuals to rebuild their lives. Through mentorship, advocacy, and resource coordination, he continues to be a strong ally for those navigating the challenges of reentry, always striving to create opportunities for growth, healing, and meaningful change.

Kristen Gutierrez serves as Executive Assistant, bringing both organizational expertise and a strong commitment to community engagement. With a background in sociology, Kristen is passionate about supporting systems that promote equity and empowerment. Her work is grounded in a desire to contribute meaningfully to her community, both professionally and through volunteer efforts.

Kristen has worked directly with foster youth and has actively volunteered with organizations that encourage self-advocacy and personal development. Her dedication to service and social impact is evident in every aspect of her work, making her a valuable support to both the team and the communities they serve.