The Team
Vaughn Bernardez
PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Vaughn Bernardez has worked in the non-profit sector for 20 years and held positions including Principal, International Department Director, Teacher, and Counselor. As a charter school co-Founder and former operator, he works to ensures the success of programs through creating harmonious teams and strategic and proven leadership.
Michael Sabal
TRAINING DIRECTOR
Michael Sabal's experience spans over 20 years in Construction. As a Certified Journeyman, Mike is a member of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and intends to pass on the trade to underrepresented populations residing in and around South Central Los Angeles.
Lance Araujo
TRAINING ASSISTANT
Lance Araujo has many years experience in the construction field and emphasizes the safety aspect of training. His other role includes Physical Conditioning Coordinator.
Saray Bautista
Office Manager Apprentice
Saray Bautista has experience in roadside construction and landscape working at non-profits such as Orange County Conservation Corps and Conservation Corps of Long Beach. She's training to become a carpenter and open to possibilities for learning and growth.
Adilah 'Tink' Hadiyah Azikiwe-Robinson
Journeyman General Carpenter specializing in Concrete
At 14, I started in my family's real estate business, later earning degrees in interior design and carpentry. Now, I train men and women in respectful construction practices, impacting projects like Kaiser at Baldwin Hills and Sofi Stadium while reshaping perceptions of women in the field.
Jimmy Ramirez
TRAINER
I have many years of vocational experience before enrolling in Carpenter Training Partners in 2023. There, I developed carpentry skills and later was hired as a trainer assistant. I continue to mentor trainees who want to pursue a career as a carpenter.
Semaj Johnson
JOURNEYMAN CARPENTER
Semaj Johnson is a Journeyman Carpenter with 7+ years experience in the trade. He is on a mission to show his fellow peers that there is another route to being successful and being a model citizen for others.
Landon Malcom Martinez
TRAINER
I'm strong, positive, and motivated to learn with the ability to teach. My dedication is always willing to assist those that are ambitious pertaining to being taught. Excellence is the key!!
Joseph Casillas
JOURNEYMAN CARPENTER
Worked in the construction industry for more than 10 years and has been a member of the carpenter's union for 3 and a half years.