SkillsUSA

TALLULAH LYNN MENDOZA, President

Tallulah Lynn Mendoza was born in Torrance, California, and raised in Montebello. A passionate athlete and natural leader, she leads with empathy and determination. As an older sister, Tallulah has learned to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, always striving to become a better version of herself.

A devoted baseball fan, she brings the strategy and focus of the game into her everyday life. Through Jiu Jitsu, where she holds an upper yellow belt, Tallulah has discovered the power of discipline and perseverance — lessons she now shares by helping coach and mentor her younger teammates.

Beyond athletics, Tallulah expresses her creativity through fashion, makeup, and music — each a reflection of her evolving identity and confidence. With a big heart and an even bigger vision, Tallulah leads with passion, compassion, and the belief that teamwork and kindness can inspire real change.

JESUS RAFAEL CAZARES, Vice President

Hello my name is Jesus Rafael Cazares. I was born in Los Angeles but raised in Montebello, where I’ve lived my whole life. I have a younger sister—we’re five years and seven days apart (not that I’m counting!). I’m currently a junior at Applied Technology Center High School in the CHEF Pathway. I joined the SkillsUSA cabinet to grow my leadership and communication skills, and most importantly, to help make this school a more fun and engaging learning environment for everyone alongside the rest of the cabinet.

In my free time, I love to read, listen to music, play sports (especially soccer), go for runs around my neighborhood, and play video games with friends. These hobbies are my bread and butter—they keep me grounded and motivated. I also enjoy being active in my school and community life. I participate in several clubs and programs including Soccer Club, Volleyball Club, Discovery Club, Friday Night Live, and serve as both a CHEF Ambassador and the ASB CHEF Representative. I’m always eager to help out wherever I can. I’m grateful for the experiences and opportunities I’ve had so far, and look forward to getting to know everyone better and building strong connections this year!

IRIS AUSENCIO, Secretary 

Hi, my name is Iris Ausencio. I am a sophomore at the Applied Technology Center High School, where I am enrolled in the ACE pathway. I joined SkillsUSA this year and I’m serving as our chapter’s secretary. I joined SkillsUSA to develop better teamwork, leadership, and communication skills. Although this is something new for my school, I am determined to create a positive impact so we can keep SkillsUSA at my school for many years to come.  On top of my responsibilities in SkillsUSA, I am also sophomore vice president in ASB and ambassador for the ACE pathway. Outside of school, I enjoy listening to music, reading, and hanging out with my friends. I hope to one day pursue a career in architecture. I’m excited to represent my school this year through SkillsUSA.

JESSICA GOVEA, Treasurer

Hello! My name is Jessica Govea and I am a junior in the Public and Legal Services pathway. I’m the treasurer for the 2025-2026 SkillsUSA cabinet and am very honored to be a part of the first ever ATC SkillsUSA chapter. Aside from SkillsUSA, you can find me participating in Leos, Newspaper, Lab Rats, and Garden Club. I am also in the AA ELAC program where I intend to complete my general education credits for college before I graduate high school. Outside of school, I enjoy drawing, listening to music, journaling, watching TV series, playing JustDance, spending time in nature, and with my family and friends. I’m very excited for what this new opportunity will bring for all Iron Horses and I will try my best to set a great precedent for future chapters!

SHEYLA ESQUIVEL, Reporter

Hi, my name is Sheyla Esquivel, and I’m a senior at the Applied Technology Center. I’m part of the Public and Legal Services pathway, which has been such an eye-opening experience for me. I really enjoy the hands-on activities we do in class like lifting fingerprints, identifying victims, and crime scene photography.

After high school, I plan to major in Administration of Justice and hope to become either a Crime Scene Investigator or a Social Worker. This is my first year in SkillsUSA, and I’m excited to be part of something that helps students grow and get ready for the real world. I’m looking forward to learning new things, meeting people with similar goals, and building confidence in leadership and teamwork.

Outside of school, I love listening to music, spending time with my family, and catching up with friends. I'm proud to represent my school through SkillsUSA and can’t wait to see where this journey takes me.