Danci Gutierrez 

“It takes vision and imagination, with the belief that anything is possible, to make things better.” This conviction fuels Danci Gutierrez’s leadership as Executive Director and founder of Auto Pros Academy.

Recognizing a critical gap in Lancaster, where local schools lacked auto shop programs and the nation faced a shortage of skilled technicians, Danci took bold action. In February 2025, she launched Auto Pros Academy to provide free, high-quality automotive education to underserved youth, opening doors to rewarding careers and brighter futures.

Danci’s innovative and bold vision bridges the gap between the growing demand for skilled automotive technicians and the untapped potential of local youth. She has created A Seamless Pathway to Automotive Excellence, guiding students through every stage of their journey:

• Future Auto Techs Middle School STEM Program

• Automotive Engineering & Technology Prep Program (Freshman/Sophomore)

• Automotive Engineering & Technology Advanced Program (Junior/Senior)

• Auto Pros Paid Apprenticeship Program

• Auto Pros Apprenticeship Job Placement Program

Her goal is to hold the hand of every student throughout the entire process. All the students need to do is the hard work, Danci and the Academy will get them to the finish line, leading to top-paying careers and life-changing opportunities.

With over 30 years of experience in sales, customer service, advertising, and consulting, Danci brings both business acumen and heart to her work. She understands that networking is key, and in a remarkably short time, she has built tremendous support from community leaders, educators, school districts, Rotary clubs, and local organizations. This powerful coalition is dedicated to empowering students and strengthening the region’s workforce.

As the Academy’s founder, lead grant writer, and hands-on executive director, Danci ensures every program stays true to its mission of student empowerment and community impact. Her unwavering dedication is the heart and soul of Auto Pros Academy, transforming a powerful vision into a life-changing reality for the Antelope Valley region.

Rudy Gutierrez

Rudy Gutierrez, born and raised in the Antelope Valley, is a dedicated member of his community who believes in giving back. As the head instructor at Auto Pros Academy and owner of Auto Pros Automotive Repair, Rudy brings over 40 years of automotive experience to his work. He is a certified ASE Master Technician and holds a degree in engineering, offering his students a unique combination of practical expertise and technical knowledge. Rudy’s career includes significant experience working at Ford in Research and Development, further enriching his insights into the automotive industry.

Rudy takes great pride in preparing young learners for successful careers in the ever-evolving automotive field. His teaching philosophy emphasizes combining theoretical understanding with hands-on skills, ensuring students are equipped to meet the demands of modern automotive professions. He is deeply passionate about teaching because he believes that "knowledge is power," and he finds immense satisfaction in seeing his students succeed. Witnessing them grow into skilled professionals is a source of great pride for him, as he knows that empowering them with knowledge will have a lasting impact on their futures.

Auto Pros Automotive Repair, under Rudy's leadership, has earned a reputation as the go-to shop for resolving even the most challenging automotive problems. With Rudy's extensive knowledge and expertise, the shop is renowned for its ability to diagnose and fix issues that other shops may struggle with. This reputation is built on a foundation of honesty, integrity, and a commitment to providing high-quality service at affordable prices. Rudy's personal philosophy is encapsulated in his quote: "I want to leave people in a better place before I met them."

His commitment to excellence and his deep connection to the Antelope Valley make him an invaluable asset to both his students and his community.

Anthony Pelayo

Anthony Pelayo, General Manager at Auto Pros Automotive Repair, brings over 10 years of hands-on experience to his dual role as an instructor at Auto Pros Academy. With a strong background in automotive management, employee training, and compliance with Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) regulations, Anthony is dedicated to preparing high school students for college-level studies and successful careers in the automotive industry.

Anthony’s expertise spans dealership operations, including firsthand experience in sales and service departments, giving him a comprehensive understanding of the business side of the automotive field. His knowledge of industry standards, compliance practices, and business operations makes him an invaluable instructor. He equips students with both technical skills and essential management insights, ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of modern automotive professions.

Driven by a passion to reshape the public perception of the automotive industry, Anthony is committed to transforming the stigma surrounding unethical practices. His mission is to inspire and mentor a new generation of expert technicians who uphold integrity and professionalism. As he often says, "Bring me heart, I will supply the skills, together we will craft greatness." This philosophy encapsulates his approach to teaching and mentoring, emphasizing the importance of passion and dedication alongside technical expertise. By blending real-world expertise with a focus on ethical practices, Anthony ensures his students are not only skilled but also equipped to contribute positively to the industry.

Aleythia Suarez

Aleythia Isabella Suarez joins Auto Pros Academy as the Executive Assistant to the Director and Social Media Coordinator, bringing a strong background in customer service and leadership. With over five years of experience delivering exceptional customer experiences, she has honed her skills in communication, problem-solving, and team collaboration. For the past two years, Aleythia has held supervisory roles, where she developed her ability to manage teams effectively and drive operational efficiency.

In her expanded role as Social Media Coordinator, Aleythia leverages her organizational and creative skills to enhance the Academy’s online presence, engage the community, and promote key initiatives.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Aleythia is deeply committed to community involvement, particularly in initiatives aimed at empowering youth. She actively participates in and supports community events designed to engage young people, fostering their personal development and community engagement. Her dedication to both professional excellence and community service makes her an invaluable asset to the Auto Pros Academy team.

Words she lives by:

“There are 3 types of people: those who make things happen, those who watch things happen, and those who wonder, what just happened.”