Staff
Jerry Cabrera, President & CEO
Jerry, a native of Yuma and a resident of Somerton, brings a distinguished background to his role. He served as the City Manager for the City of Somerton from 2019 to 2022, and his educational credentials include a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from NAU-Yuma and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Phoenix. Before assuming the responsibilities of City Manager, Mr. Cabrera held positions of employment at the Regional Center for Border Health and the Somerton Elementary School, where he ascended through the ranks to Assistant Superintendent.
Jerry's active involvement extends beyond his professional positions, as he has been an engaged participant in numerous Yuma County boards and committees. His contributions have been notable in organizations such as the Yuma Community Foundation, Yuma County Food Bank, Somerton Rotary, Yuma HOME Consortium, Yuma County Intergovernmental Public Transportation Authority, and various other committees dedicated to community development. Additionally, Mr. Cabrera maintains a portfolio of certifications, including but not limited to his Elementary School Certification, Mediation Certification, MBTI Trainer Certification, and Student Hearing Officer accreditation, which further exemplify his commitment to enhancing the educational and civic landscape of Yuma.
Email:
jerry@elevatesouthwest.org
Maria Ortiz, Executive Administrative Assistant
Maria Ortiz is a self-made entrepreneur and a dedicated administrative professional, proudly born and raised in Yuma, Arizona. Maria has held key leadership roles, including serving as Vice-President of E & M Farms Inc. Maria has over 20 years of experience in office management, customer service, scheduling, and financial administration across the agriculture, healthcare, and non-profit sectors. Known for her dependable nature, collaborative spirit, and solution-focused mindset, Maria has a proven track record of streamlining operations and enhancing team efficiency. Deeply rooted in strong family values, Maria takes pride in balancing her professional achievements with her role as a devoted family member. Her journey reflects not only her entrepreneurial drive but also her passion for uplifting her community. As a proud Yuma native, she approaches her work with integrity, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to progress and innovation, continually striving to give back to the community she calls home. As Administrative Assistant at Elevate Southwest, she is honored to work with the team that shares the same collaborative mission to serve the Greater Yuma Region. Email: maria@elevatesouthwest.org
Aaron Ruiz, Entrepreneurship and Innovation Coordinator
Aaron, a native of San Luis, AZ, is dedicated to driving technological innovation in the Desert Southwest Megaregion. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Arizona State University's Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering and the W. P. Carey School of Business, where he specialized in Technological Entrepreneurship and Management, with a focus on Technological Innovation and Engineering Management.
Aaron's career encompasses a diverse range of sectors, including the Department of Defense, healthcare, retail, and the Department of Homeland Security. He has also led nonprofit initiatives that provide essential services—such as healthcare, shelter, food, and education—to underserved communities. In addition, Aaron has successfully managed several small businesses and offered business consulting services, highlighting his entrepreneurial spirit and expertise.
A strong advocate for collaboration, Aaron actively partners with various community entities to enhance the impact of initiatives and improve the overall performance of programs. His ability to foster strong, synergistic relationships with stakeholders ensures that projects are not only successful but also sustainable and scalable. At ElevateSouthwest.org, Aaron plays a key role at the intersection of academia, innovation, entrepreneurship, and industry. He is committed to shaping the future of the region by leveraging the latest advancements in STEM to drive sustainable growth and development.
Contact:
aaron@elevatesouthwest.org
Mandie Gillmor, Program Coordinator
Mandie brings a unique blend of personal experience, professional expertise, and community commitment to her role as Program Coordinator at Elevate Southwest. As a homeschool mom, she deeply understands the needs and aspirations of youth outside traditional classrooms and is passionate about designing engaging, real-world learning opportunities that build both practical and future-ready skills.
Mandie’s background includes healthcare as a former nurse, entrepreneurship as a small business owner, and nonprofit leadership through her work with Strong Beginnings, where she developed programs and resources that empower families and youth. She also holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management with an emphasis on Marketing, Communications, and Operations, bringing strategic insight to program design and coordination.
At Elevate Southwest, Mandie leads the development and execution of STEM and career readiness programs, including internships and skills-based workshops. She collaborates with educators, industry partners, and students to ensure programs are accessible, high-quality, and aligned with the organization’s mission to elevate post-secondary pathways in the Greater Yuma Region.
Outside of Elevate Southwest, Mandie enjoys working out, golfing, and sharing good food and fun with her family, while continuing to explore ways to inspire and support teens in her community.
Contact: mandie@elevatesouthwest.org