2025 PSD Career Technical Education: Esmeralda Alba

by Anastasia Thrift on May 21, 2025

Please tell us about yourself. Where did you grow up?What are your interests?
What is your story?

My name is Esmeralda Alba. I grew up in the city of Stanton in a hardworking household where dedication and responsibility were part of everyday life. I’ve always had a curious mind and a hands-on approach to learning, but for a long time, I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my future. Back in high school, I felt directionless — I was just going through the motions, spending most of my time in my room watching movies, unsure of what path to take.

That changed because of my older brother. One day, he asked me to hang out with him while he worked on his project car. At first, it was just a way to get out of the house and spend time together. But the more time I spent with him, the more I became fascinated by what he was doing — how each part of the car worked together, how small fixes made big changes, how much problem-solving went into it. Every day since then, my love for cars has grown stronger, and I’ve never looked back.

What started as casual time with my brother turned into a deep passion for automotive technology — and eventually inspired my goal of becoming a mechanical engineer. As a first-generation college student, my journey hasn’t always been easy. But every challenge has pushed me to grow, and every opportunity has helped shape me into the person I’m becoming.

My story is one of growth, rediscovery, and a future fueled by purpose.

What are you most passionate about? Why?

I’m most passionate about learning how things work — especially when it comes to cars and mechanical systems. There’s something incredibly satisfying about diagnosing a problem, putting in the work to fix it, and seeing the results come to life. It’s more than just turning wrenches or replacing parts — it’s about understanding the “why” behind it all and constantly growing in knowledge and skill.

Being in a field that’s traditionally male-dominated, I often find myself in silent competition — whether it’s in the classroom or at work. There’s always this pressure to prove myself, to show that I’m just as capable, if not more. I want to prove the doubters wrong — but even more than that, I want to prove to myself that I belong here and that I’m worthy of every opportunity I earn.

Every time I learn something new, whether in the classroom or in the shop, I feel a little more confident, a little more capable, and a little more sure of the direction I’m heading. It’s a passion that keeps challenging me, and that’s what I love most — that there’s always something new to learn or improve on.

Why did you choose Cypress College?

I chose Cypress College because I was looking for a place that felt supportive, hands-on, and career-focused — and that’s exactly what I found here. It was also close to home, which was important to me. I wasn’t ready to move far away, and I wanted to stay grounded while figuring out my next steps.
On top of that, I had heard amazing things about Cypress College’s automotive program — that it was one of the best around. That sealed the deal for me. I wanted a school where I could get real-world experience and strong mentorship, and Cypress delivered on all of that.

From day one, I felt like I belonged here. The programs are built around practical learning, and the faculty genuinely care about helping students succeed. I could tell right away that this wasn’t just a place to take classes — it was a community that wanted to see me grow.

Looking back now, choosing Cypress was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It’s where I found my passion, my purpose, and a clear direction for my future.

What have you been involved in at Cypress College? How has your path unfolded?

At Cypress College, I’ve been fully immersed in the Automotive Technology program, where I’ve not only gained hands-on experience, but also built strong connections with instructors and classmates who’ve helped shape my journey. I’ve taken every opportunity to grow — whether it’s staying after class to ask questions, volunteering to help in the shop, or stepping up when someone needs support. That environment pushed me to stay curious, keep learning, and challenge myself beyond just passing classes.
Through the Automotive program, I’ve also helped set up and clean up for career fairs hosted by the department. Being a part of those events gave me insight into the wide range of career paths available and helped me connect with industry professionals. One of the most exciting experiences I’ve had was being invited by one of my professors to help at a Formula Drift event — I helped pass out tickets and assist with the event. It was such a fun and unforgettable experience that reminded me just how far my passion for cars has taken me.

In addition, I’ve been part of the EOPS program, which has offered me so much guidance and support throughout my academic journey. The resources and counseling through EOPS helped me stay on track, set clear goals, and feel more confident in the path I’m on.

Over time, I went from being unsure about my future to confidently pursuing a career in mechanical engineering. I discovered my strengths in problem-solving and teamwork, and I realized how much I enjoy helping others and learning from them in return. My time here has been filled with personal growth and a deeper understanding of who I am and what I want to do — and it all started with simply saying yes to trying something new.

Share a memorable event or experience while you’ve been a Cypress College student.

One of the most memorable experiences I’ve had at Cypress College was getting to help out at a Formula Drift event with one of my professors. Not only did I pass out tickets and assist with the event, but I also had the chance to support a program called Acceler8 at their booth. It was an incredible experience — I got to engage with people who were just as excited about cars as I was, and even helped set up a fun spark plug challenge.

What made it even more special was that, during class, I actually helped my professor build and prep the engine used for the game. It felt amazing to see something we worked on together come to life at the event. At the booth, I acted as the referee while two people competed to see who could change spark plugs the fastest. It was such a fun and interactive way to get people involved, and I had a blast being part of it.

I also invited my older brother to come along, which made it even more special since he was the one who first introduced me to the automotive world. We got to meet some of the drivers, watch the races up close, and enjoy the thrill of the drift — it was a full-circle moment for me.

The following year, Acceler8 reached out and asked to interview me and share my story, which was such an honor. I got to watch the races again from the suite above the track, and being recognized like that made me feel like my hard work and passion were really being seen.

I’ve also had incredible career moments while being a student at Cypress. At one of the
Automotive Career Fairs, I met Andie Pandell, who is now my current manager at McKenna Subaru, where I’ve been working for the past eight months. Before that, one of my professors helped me land an internship at Tesla in Costa Mesa, where I also worked for eight months. Both opportunities helped me grow so much professionally — I gained real-world experience in dealerships, learned the ins and outs of the industry, and developed my skills on a whole new level.

All of these experiences — from the exciting events to the professional growth — have made my time at Cypress unforgettable. They’ve shaped my confidence, opened doors, and reminded me just how far I’ve come.

Who are the faculty and staff (in your major, an academic or other support program, etc.) who have helped you get where you are today?

I’ve been incredibly lucky to have so many supportive people at Cypress College who’ve guided me along the way. In terms of counseling, Jeannie Mitsch from the Career Technical Education program, along with all of the EOPS counselors, played a huge role in helping me stay on track. They worked closely with me to create an educational plan, kept me motivated, and were always there when I needed support or direction.

In the automotive department, there are several faculty members who had a big impact on my journey. Marty Orozco, the department chair and one of my professors, always gave me real-world advice that stuck with me. He went out of his way to connect me with people — especially other women in the field — and his encouragement helped me build confidence and find my place in this industry.

Russell Bacarella helped me land an internship at Tesla and also played a key role in where I currently work. He was the one who opened the door for me to work with the Acceler8 program, which became one of the most memorable experiences of my time at Cypress.

Professors Enrique Aispuro and Michael Beard also left a big impression on me. Although Professor Beard has since retired, I was fortunate enough to take one of his classes. Both of them shared such valuable knowledge in the areas they specialize in and gave me skills and insight that I carry with me every day.
Every single one of these individuals helped shape my path, pushed me to grow, and made me feel seen and supported. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.

How has Cypress College supported you throughout your time at the college?

Cypress College has supported me in more ways than I ever expected. From the start, I felt like I
wasn’t just another student — I was part of a community that genuinely cared about my success. The support I received through EOPS was especially meaningful. They helped me stay on track with my educational goals, answered my questions when I felt unsure, and always encouraged me to push forward even when things got tough.

The CTE counselor, Jeannie Mitsch, helped me see the big picture and make informed decisions about my future. She kept me focused and provided the resources I needed to grow both personally and professionally.
In the automotive department, the professors treated me like I belonged. They offered not only technical knowledge, but also mentorship, guidance, and real-world opportunities that helped me build confidence and hands-on experience. Through them, I was able to attend events, secure internships, and make connections that continue to support me even now.

Cypress also offered a space where I could learn and challenge myself without feeling like I had to prove anything to anyone — though I always do! It gave me the tools, the people, and the experiences that helped me grow into the woman I am today — someone who’s passionate, driven, and proud to be in the field she chose.

What are your immediate plans after completing your studies at Cypress College (at your transfer institution, in the workforce, etc.)?

Right after completing my studies at Cypress College, I plan to continue gaining hands-on experience and growing in the automotive industry. I’m currently working at McKenna Subaru as a lube technician, and I want to continue developing my skills there while exploring more advanced areas in the shop. Every day on the job gives me new challenges and opportunities to learn, whether it’s working with the washer team, assisting Volkswagen techs, or performing PDIs and inspections.

While I’ve already had amazing experiences — including my internship at Tesla and my time with the Acceler8 program — I know there’s still so much more to explore. My immediate focus is to continue working in the field, building my knowledge, and preparing myself for even bigger opportunities down the road.

What are your long-term goals? What do you aspire to?

Long-term, I aspire to become a mechanical engineer. While I started my journey in the automotive field — and gained valuable hands-on experience through my internship at Tesla, my current job at McKenna Subaru, and the automotive program — I’ve recently felt a strong pull toward the engineering side of the industry. I’m fascinated by how things work on a deeper level and want to be part of designing and improving the very systems I’ve been working on.

My goal is to transfer to Cal State Long Beach and earn my degree in mechanical engineering. From there, I hope to work in a role where I can blend both my practical experience and technical knowledge — whether it’s in automotive design, manufacturing, or a related field.

I also want to inspire others, especially women, to explore careers in engineering and technical trades. I know how intimidating it can feel to enter a male-dominated space, but I’ve learned that passion, persistence, and a willingness to grow can take you far.

What are you most proud of?

I’m most proud of how far I’ve come — not just in terms of achievements, but in how much I’ve grown as a person. A few years ago, I was unsure of my path, unsure of myself, and had no idea what I wanted to do. Now, I’m confidently pursuing a career in mechanical engineering, with real-world experience in the automotive field, an amazing job at McKenna Subaru, and incredible opportunities like interning at Tesla and being involved with Acceler8.

I’ve also learned to step outside of my comfort zone and prove to myself that I belong in spaces where I once felt like an outsider. Whether it’s working in a male-dominated industry or being the first in my family to navigate certain academic or professional paths, I’ve pushed through every doubt and challenge with persistence and pride.

Receiving the Presidential Scholar of Distinction award is something I never imagined when I first started — and now, it’s a symbol of everything I’ve worked so hard for. I’m proud of my journey, my resilience, and the way I continue to show up for myself and my future.

What bit of advice would you give to current and future Cypress College students?

My biggest piece of advice is: don’t be afraid to explore — even if you don’t know exactly what you want to do yet. I started out with no clear direction, just following something that sparked my curiosity, and that curiosity turned into passion, which then turned into a real career path. It’s okay to not have everything figured out right away.

Also, take advantage of the resources and opportunities Cypress College offers. Programs like EOPS, career fairs, and support from faculty and staff made a huge difference in helping me stay on track and motivated. Talk to your professors, go to events, and ask questions — you never know what doors might open just from putting yourself out there.

Lastly, don’t let fear stop you. Whether it’s fear of being the only woman in the room, fear of failing, or fear of trying something new — push through it. You’re capable of way more than you think.

Is there anyone in particular you’d like to thank?

I’d like to thank my family, especially my older brother, who was the one that unknowingly introduced me to the world of automotive. If he hadn’t invited me to hang out with him and his project car back in high school, I don’t know where I’d be today. He helped spark a passion in me that led to everything I’ve accomplished so far.

I also want to thank my mom — she’s been my biggest supporter from the very beginning. Her love, encouragement, and belief in me have kept me grounded and motivated through every up and down. I owe so much of my strength and determination to her.

I’m also incredibly thankful for the amazing faculty and staff at Cypress College who’ve supported me throughout this journey — Marty Orozco, Russell Bacarella, Enrique Aispuro, Michael Beard, and all the counselors from EOPS and Career Technical Education. They helped me stay on track, believe in myself, and reach my goals.

To the automotive program at Cypress — thank you for every hands-on opportunity, every piece of advice, and for always believing in my potential. And finally, I’m deeply grateful to the mentors and managers who gave me the chance to prove myself in the field — I truly wouldn’t be where I am today without them.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from my journey so far, it’s that growth doesn’t always happen in straight lines — sometimes it starts with saying “yes” to something small, and that can change everything. I went from being unsure about my future to finding a career path I’m excited and passionate about. And now, I’m headed toward something even bigger as I work toward becoming a mechanical engineer.

I’m proud of the challenges I’ve faced, the people I’ve met, and how far I’ve come. I want other students — especially women stepping into male-dominated fields — to know that it’s okay to feel intimidated at first. What matters is that you keep showing up, stay curious, and keep pushing forward. You belong here too.