Auto Pros Academy

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Meet the Board

At Auto Pros Academy, our Board of Directors brings together a diverse group of leaders, educators, and industry professionals, all united by a passion for automotive education and youth empowerment. Get to know the people guiding our mission and shaping the future of automotive training for youth.

Anthony Pelayo

Board Chair & Auto Pros Academy Instructor 

Anthony Pelayo, General Manager at Auto Pros Automotive Repair, brings over 10 years of experience in automotive management and employee training to his dual role at Auto Pros Academy. He combines hands-on expertise with knowledge of industry standards and BAR compliance to prepare students for college-level studies and careers in the automotive field. Passionate about reshaping the industry’s reputation, Anthony mentors students to uphold integrity and professionalism. As he says, “Bring me heart, I will supply the skills; together we will craft greatness.”

Eduardo Valladares

Co-Chair

Eduardo Valladares is an experienced educator. With a background in innovative teaching methodologies, he is passionate about empowering students to embrace intentional learning and develop a growth mindset. As Co-Chair of Auto Pros Academy, Eduardo plays a key role in guiding the organization’s mission to prepare students for future success through hands-on education and personal development. He is committed to creating an environment where learning goes beyond tests to inspire lifelong curiosity and resilience.

Oscar Thompson

Secretary

Oscar Thompson is a dedicated professional with experience at Spectrum Business, bringing strong organizational and communication skills to his role as Secretary at Auto Pros Academy. His goal-driven approach and commitment to teamwork support the Academy’s mission to provide quality automotive education and community engagement. Oscar’s expertise in business operations and client relations enhances the board’s effectiveness in advancing student success. He is passionate about contributing to the growth and impact of Auto Pros Academy.
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Kelly Adams

Treasurer

Kelly Adams is a seasoned professional in tax and bookkeeping, making her an ideal fit for the role of Treasurer at Auto Pros Academy. She brings expertise in budgeting, financial planning, and resource management to ensure the Academy’s funds are managed with integrity and transparency. Kelly is passionate about supporting educational programs that empower students with valuable, real-world skills. Her commitment to sound financial stewardship helps drive the Academy’s mission forward.

Rudy Gutierrez

Board Automotive Education Expert & Head Instructor

Beyond his educational leadership, Rudy Gutierrez brings a wealth of real-world expertise to his role. As the owner of Auto Pros Lancaster—a fixture in the Lancaster community for over 41 years—he’s deeply committed to the automotive field and to inspiring the next generation of professionals.

Rudy’s career is distinguished by his time at Ford in the Research and Development Department, where he honed his sharp intellect and innovative problem-solving skills. This experience, combined with his certification as an ASE Master Technician and a degree in engineering, makes him an exceptional asset to Auto Pros Academy as both Board Automotive Education Expert and Head Instructor.

At the Academy, Rudy channels his passion and knowledge into developing cutting-edge curricula that equip students with practical skills and comprehensive knowledge. His hands-on approach ensures students are fully prepared for advanced studies and successful careers in automotive technology. Rudy’s dedication to mentoring and accessible, high-quality education embodies the Academy’s core values, shaping the future of automotive expertise.

Barbara Roozenboom

Subject Expert

Barbara Roozenboom combines deep automotive industry knowledge with extensive corporate HR experience. As owner of Tim’s Automotive Repair and Sales in Clackamas, Oregon, she brings real-world insight that strengthens our partnership with Auto Pros Lancaster Auto Repair and elevates all five of our programs.

With a master’s degree in industrial psychology, experience working in 83 countries, fluency in three languages, and a certified teaching license, Barbara offers a unique global perspective and a passion for education. Her sharp business acumen ensures our curriculum is practical, industry-aligned, and forward-thinking.

Barbara is dedicated to empowering students with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in today’s evolving automotive field, making her an invaluable leader at Auto Pros Academy.

Denise Burns

Committee Chair

Denise Burns is an accomplished educator and leader, serving as Committee Chair at Auto Pros Academy. She holds a master’s degree in industrial organizational psychology, which equips her with a deep understanding of effective team dynamics, leadership, and organizational development. Denise’s expertise enhances the Academy’s mission to deliver high-quality automotive STEM education to middle and high school students. Her passion for empowering youth, combined with her background in psychology and education, helps ensure that Auto Pros Academy continues to inspire and prepare the next generation of automotive professionals for success.
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