Meet the Cabrillo EDC Human Resources Team

At Cabrillo EDC, our Human Resources team plays an essential role in shaping a supportive and thriving workplace. The department leads the organization’s people strategy with a focus on labor law compliance and organizational culture. Working closely with leadership, the team ensures that HR practices align with our vision, mission, and strategic goals, which helps create a positive and productive environment for employees across all departments.

Human Resources oversees the full employee experience, including talent acquisition, employee relations, performance management, compensation and benefits, and staff training and development. Today, we are pleased to introduce you to the dedicated team behind this important work.

Brenda Mares, Director of Human Resources

Brenda was born in Ventura and raised in Oxnard, where her roots in community and family remain strong. She comes from a large, close-knit family that includes her parents, two brothers, and five sisters. She is the proud mother of Josh, 25, and Millie, 15, and a grandmother to ten-month-old Ximena Zeina with another grandchild on the way. Her loyal dog Koko is never far behind.

Outside of work, Brenda enjoys traveling, dancing, and the occasional visit to the casino. Her professional background in Human Resources spans government, credit unions, manufacturing, and agriculture. She attended Ventura College before transferring to CSU Channel Islands and holds associate degrees in behavioral sciences and liberal arts. She is completing her Bachelor of Communications and has earned several SHRM certifications including PHR, Professional Human Resources, and FPC, Fundamentals Payroll Certification.

What Brenda appreciates most about working at Cabrillo EDC is the chance to give back to the community that shaped her. She grew up in affordable housing and is the daughter of farmworker parents. Her personal experiences give her a clear understanding of the impact Cabrillo’s mission has on families, and she brings that passion to her work each day.

Maritza Carranza, Human Resources Representative

Maritza brings a warm and thoughtful presence to the HR team. She has a deep appreciation for the outdoors and enjoys camping, off-roading, and any chance to connect with nature. In her free time, you will often find her reading, cooking, playing guitar, or spending quality time with her family.

Supporting and uplifting others is at the center of who Maritza is, which is why Cabillo EDC’s mission resonates with her. She values the opportunity to help employees and contribute to a workplace where people feel cared for and encouraged to grow.

Our Human Resources team plays a vital role in nurturing an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and prepared to make a meaningful impact. We are grateful for their dedication and proud to have Brenda and Maritza guiding Cabrillo EDC’s people-focused efforts.