Alumni Spotlight: Ashley Mendez

For Ashley Mendez, CAST STEM ‘24, building her career goes beyond developing technical skills. Ashley is intentional about putting herself in rooms, conversations, and professional networks where new opportunities can take shape.

Ashley is nearing completion of her degree in Electronic Systems Engineering Technology at Texas A&M University–San Antonio; however, her post-high school journey has not been without challenges. Through persistence, Ashley has overcome difficult circumstances while learning valuable lessons along the way. She shared that she needed to pay for school out of pocket, requiring her to take on part-time work while remaining a full-time student. Balancing those responsibilities taught her the value of “networking and building real connections in the community.” While grades are important, Ashley’s work experiences have also helped her understand which skills are valuable and form connections with people who have offered advice, friendship, and mentorship.

Together with her fiancé and fellow CAST STEM ‘24 graduate, Adrian Cisneros, Ashley has sought out professional networking opportunities to build connections as they each build their careers. Ashley shared that every event has connected her to “new people, new mindsets, and new success stories,” opening new doors for both her and Adrian. More recently, Ashley met a new mentor through one of these networking opportunities. While putting yourself out there to meet new people and grow your professional network can be daunting, Ashley’s experience demonstrates the positive impact of intentional networking—and it is something she is proud of.

As a former CAST STEM student, Ashley believes experiences such as project-based learning shaped her public speaking skills, confidence, and ability to think on her feet. All of these competencies have been foundational to her ability to thrive in networking settings. Ashley also shared that CAST STEM provided an environment where she built meaningful bonds with mentors such as Mrs. Walters and Ms. Martinez, found her passions, and embraced opportunities that helped her grow in her career.

Interested in building or growing your own professional network? Join us August 18 from 5–6 p.m. for an exclusive CAST Alumni opportunity: Networking Beyond Business Cards Masterclass, led by CAST Tech Advisory Board Member Christina Jovanna Olivarez. Check out the flyer for more information and RSVP to secure your spot!