Erika’s connection to the Salinas Valley is rooted in summers she spent working in the strawberry fields and early mornings picking tomatoes with her parents. As the oldest of five children, Erika became responsible for the care of her siblings at a young age. The work ethic she learned during her early years motivated her academic pursuits. Erika was the first in her family to graduate high school and also attend university. She attended Fresno State University and San Jose State University.

With a keen eye for business, Erika’s experience continued to grow over the years, first through positions in retail management and later through the launch of her own small business, Pacific Coast Tree Service. She further deepened her impact in the small business space by supporting entrepreneurs through small business development centers in the Salinas Valley. By joining Kitchen Table Advisors, Erika is eager to engage her regional connections and professional talents in service of uplifting small farmers and ranchers.