ANNUAL
CONFERENCE
MARCH 2-4, 2025
SAFE Credit Union Convention Center- Sacramento, CA

ABOUT US

Welcome to the Educating for Careers Conference, where innovation and education converge to shape the future workforce. We are dedicated to fostering a dynamic environment that bridges the gap between academic learning and career readiness. Our mission is to equip educators, students, and industry professionals with the tools and insights needed to navigate the evolving job market. By showcasing cutting-edge practices, sharing success stories, and facilitating meaningful connections, we aim to empower all participants to drive impactful change and create pathways to success in today's rapidly changing world. Join us as we explore the transformative power of education and career development!

keynote speakers

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José M Hernández

José was selected by NASA as a member of their 19th class of astronauts in 2004. After completing his training he was selected for a mission in 2007 and flew as the flight engineer in the 2009 14-day STS-128 mission aboard Space Shuttle Discovery to the International Space Station. In addition to his flight engineer duties José was also one of two principal robotic arm. Before being selected as an astronaut, José worked at NASA as the Branch Chief of the Materials and Processes Branch at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. There he oversaw the branch's activities in the areas of materials and processes, fracture control, nondestructive evaluation, failure analysis, and Nano materials research. His branch was also instrumental in participating in the investigation to help find the root cause of the Space Shuttle Columbia accident and reporting those results to the President's Columbia Accident Investigation Board.

Prior to this, José spent more than 15 years at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) where he worked on the development of a space deployed X-Ray laser as part of the Strategic Defense Initiative. He then went on to co-develop the first full-field digital mammography system for the earlier detection of breast cancer thus opening a new area of research called computer-aided diagnosis and was recognized by both the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) for this important contribution. He was also the Deputy Program Manager of the Highly Enriched Uranium Implementation program where his team was in charge of implementing a signed bilateral agreement between the U.S. and Russian Federation for the U.S. purchase of highly enriched uranium (HEU) in the form of low enriched uranium (LEU) derived from the dismantlement of Russian nuclear weapons. Finally José was invited to Department of Energy Headquarters in Washington DC to serve as the Laboratory's Program Manager in the Office of International Material Protection and Cooperation. Here he managed, integrated and allocated Department of Energy assets and expertise, including the national laboratories and contractors, in planning, directing, and implementing U.S. cooperation with the Russian Federation in the program of Nuclear Materials, Protection, Control and Accounting (MPC&A). Jose developed and implemented policies, strategies and plans to enhance U.S. national security and reduce threat of nuclear proliferation and nuclear terrorism. These goals were accomplished by rapidly improving the security of large quantities of attractive, weapons-usable nuclear material in Russia's nuclear weapons complex.

After Jose's 2009 Space Mission José was assigned to work at NASA Headquarters in Washington D.C. where he served as a Legislative Analyst and helped in the development of space policy, NASA's annual budget package and served as liaison with key Congressional members. Additional duties included the development of an effective strategy that promoted the President's new vision on Space Exploration.

José is a former candidate for U.S. Congress, author of several books including his autobiography "Reaching for the Stars" and the children's version "The Boy Who Touched the Stars".

Today, José works as a consultant within the company he founded in 2012, Tierra Luna Engineering, LLC. Here, he works on his areas of interest that include aerospace consulting, renewable energy, and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) outreach. Projects he has worked on include serving as the technical liaison to Mexico's Secretaria de Comunicaciones y Transportes (SCT) where he helped develop the technical requirements to procure three communications satellites from Boeing. In this role he assisted in the procurement and the acceptance testing process. He also ensured the launch and orbit placement of the three satellites with three different launch service providers. Current activities include serving as a visiting professor at the Universidad Autonoma del Estado de Puebla (UPAEP) in Puebla, Mexico where he is mentoring UPAEP faculty and students and through a Space Act Agreement with NASA and the Mexican Space Agency, will assist UPAEP in the design, testing and launch of the first functioning satellite designed and built by a university in Mexico. The scheduled launch date is October 2019 aboard a Falcon 9 rocket as part of a Nanoracks payload.

He has also been the recipient of numerous awards including NASA Service Awards (2002, 2003), Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory "Outstanding Engineer Award" (2001), Upward Bound National TRIO Achiever Award (2001), U.S. Department of Energy "Outstanding Performance Commendation" (2000), Society of Mexican American Engineers and Scientists (MAES) "Medalla de Oro" recipient for professional and community contributions (1999), Hispanic Engineer National Achievement Award, "Outstanding Technical Contribution" (1995). Finally, José has been awarded 7 honorary doctorate degrees including his alma mater, University of the Pacific.

Education

Bachelor of Science, Electrical Engineering, 1985
University of the Pacific, Stockton, California

Master of Science, Electrical Engineering, 1987
University of California, Santa Barbara, California

Ph.D. Science and Engineering
University of the Pacific, Honoris Causa, 2006
National Hispanic University, Honoris Causa, 2010
Universidad Autonoma del Estado de Puebla, Honoris Causa, 2012
Universidad Popular Autonoma del Estado de Mexico, Honoris Causa, 2013
University of Laverne, Honoris Causa, 2014
Marymount University, Honoris Causa, 2015
Universidad Michoacan de San Nicolás de Hidalgo, Honoris Causa, 2016

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Mark Perna

Mark C. Perna is the founder and CEO of TFS Results, a strategic consulting firm leading the national paradigm shift in education and workforce development. Mark, who works daily with local and regional organizations at the tactical level, created the Education with Purpose & Employment with Passion movement to help communities connect their education, business, and economic pipelines. Mark is an acclaimed and inspiring public speaker who has spoken at Harvard University by special invitation. Today, he delivers more than 80 keynote speeches annually across North America, where he frequently brings audiences to their feet.

As a noted generational expert, Mark often interviews on radio, television, and podcasts. He contributes weekly at Forbes.com, where his articles and leadership videos reach an audience of more than 4 million. He serves on the Advisory Council for the Coalition for Career Development and is a member of the International Economic Development Council, both in Washington, DC.

Through his podcast The Perna Syndicate, Mark's message reaches listeners in more than 70 countries. His bestselling book, Answering Why, received 8 national awards and has empowered countless parents, educators and employers to unleash the true potential of today's young people.

Mark is the father of two successful young people. Find out more about Mark's work at MarkCPerna.com.

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Anna Eshoo

Anna Eshoo is a seasoned educator and entrepreneur with a distinctive blend of expertise in wellness and education. As the owner of I AM YOGA Wellness Studio in Turlock, CA, and a Certified Yoga Therapist, Anna has devoted over 16 years to promoting holistic well-being and personal growth. Her studio offers a transformative space for individuals seeking balance and rejuvenation.

With more than 20 years of experience in education, Anna understands the stress of the classroom and the importance of bringing balance both in and out of the classroom for success. She has taught business at both the high school and college levels, enriching her students with a wealth of knowledge.

Anna is also the published author of Yoga: A Journey Into a Healthy Spine, reflecting her commitment to integrating wellness practices into daily life. Her deep understanding of educators' needs, combined with her wellness expertise, enables her to offer valuable resources and support, helping educators create a more balanced and impactful career. Anna provides a unique perspective that bridges the worlds of education and wellness, empowering educators to foster both personal and professional growth.

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Abhirami Nair

Abhirami Nair is the 2024-25 California HOSA State Secretary and a senior at Mountain House High School. She is in her fourth year of the PLTW Biomedical Sciences pathway at her school and has been an active member of HOSA throughout her high school career, contributing to the organization's mission to promote healthcare careers and leadership.

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Diya Jain

Diya Jain is a senior at The Quarry Lane School and is thrilled to have served as the 2024-2025 California DECA State President.

Diya became involved with DECA in her freshman year and instantly fell in love with the organization, amazed by its opportunities and vast community. Through her participation in DECA, she has learned the importance of persistence, hard work, and passion. DECA has given Diya a place where she can be herself and has shaped her into the individual she is today.

Diya has been a California DECA State Officer for two years, serving as the state's Vice President of Leadership in her junior year and the association's State President the following year. Serving as a State Officer allowed her to strengthen her leadership and professional skills, mentor students in their DECA journeys, and meet many people who have inspired her across the country. Diya is eternally grateful for all the memories and connections she has made in DECA in the past four years!

Diya is passionate about social entrepreneurship and hopes to major in Business Administration in college. Outside of DECA, she has been involved with Leadership Initiatives, providing support to aspiring Nigerian entrepreneurs throughout the year and guiding dozens of others to do the same. She has also been involved with her school's Student Council for the past three years and is currently the ASB Vice President. She leads school-wide events such as pep rallies and planning spirit weeks. In her free time, Diya enjoys tap dancing, watching movies, and spending time with her friends and family.

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Alana Navarro

Alana Navarro is a devoted leader and advocate for FCCLA (Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America). Currently serving as the California FCCLA State President, Alana has been an active member since her freshman year at Matilda Torres High School. She has excelled in various competitive events, earning first-place titles at both the region and state levels. As a former two-year Region Officer, Alana has developed a deep understanding of leadership and collaboration, which she uses to inspire others. Her passion for FCCLA is evident in her efforts to promote innovative programs like Ranger Academy and foster meaningful partnerships with keynote speakers, vendors, and facilitators to enhance the FCCLA State Leadership Conference.

Outside of FCCLA, Alana is an accomplished student leader involved in numerous school and community activities. She serves as the co-commissioner chair for community service in ASB, is a member of the California Scholarship Federation, and actively participates in clubs like the Community Club, Baking Besties, Latinx Club, and Hiking Club. Alana's dedication to FCCLA's mission of leadership, personal growth, and community engagement continues to inspire those around her, making her a role model for her peers and an influential advocate for youth leadership.

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Bryan Ramirez

Bryan Ramirez is a senior in the STEM Academy of Hollywood's Engineering Design pathway. A curious and enthusiastic student, Bryan constantly seeks opportunities to deepen his understanding of engineering-whether through challenging courses like AP Physics and AP Language or hands-on experiences in programs such as ACE Mentoring and FIRST Robotics.

Bryan's accomplishments reflect his dedication and drive. He was awarded Best-in-Pathway at the 2024 STEM Science Fair, contributed to his ACE team's top three national ranking for two consecutive years, and helped his FIRST Robotics team secure multiple scholarships and grants, as well as the 2024 Rookie of the Year title.

One of Bryan's proudest achievements is inspiring younger students to explore science and technology. As the founder of his school's FIRST Robotics Competition team, he grew the program to 30 members in under two years. He also encourages students to take on creative and challenging science fair projects, leading by example with innovations like his Atmospheric Water Generator.

Eager to be part of the next generation of engineers and scientists, Bryan plans to be the first in his family to attend university, pursuing a double major in electrical engineering and physics. He is grateful for the unwavering support of his family throughout his journey.

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Evelyn Arguello

Evelyn Arguello is a certified Community Health Worker (CHW) through the Valley High School Health TECH Academy. She joined Health TECH in her sophomore year to pursue her passion for healthcare and has since become deeply involved in community outreach, internships, and professional presentations.

As a CHW, Evelyn provides Medi-Cal reimbursable services at the Health TECH Community Health Center, a student-run clinic where she assists clients with care coordination for transportation, food, healthcare, housing, and education. She also collaborates with UC Davis Health to recruit participants for PRECISE-ME, a research study investigating how stress impacts heart health.

Throughout her three years in Health TECH, Evelyn has developed strong communication skills, learned the importance of teamwork, and gained a deeper understanding of community needs. Her dedication and excellence earned her the prestigious Silver Scrub Award, the highest honor a Health TECH student can receive. Looking ahead, Evelyn plans to apply her experience as a Community Health Worker toward a nursing career in college.

2,800+

Attendees

30+

Conferences

90+

Exhibitors