A “Car enthusiast” is someone who has a strong interest and passion for cars. The term makes the car world sound easy; but it takes a lot of skill and experience to control throttle, brake boost, steer, troubleshoot and avoid losing traction, all the while maintaining a faster forward motion to beat the competition. Malani Sanchez, Graduate of the Electrical Technology program in Victory Valley (Hesperia), is a car enthusiast. She has mastered this skill going to car meets, roll/dig nights, and canyon runs; embracing raw experience and adrenaline.
That is also a perfect description of what Malani accomplished in the last year graduating from the Electrical Technology program. She graduated with a 4.0 GPA while balancing “an extraordinary array of responsibilities both in and outside the classroom,” says Jessica Carmen, her Career Services Director. Malani is currently working as a Facility Attendant, making her way to be a Maintenance Mechanic at a Distribution Center, as well as an Engagement Coordinator at the SJVC Victory Valley (Hesperia) Campus. “But what really sets her part,” says Carmen, “is not just her intelligence, but her heart.” Malani naturally connects with others, helps them, and builds community as well. She’s got it all, and she is leading the way for women to enter and succeed in the electrical-mechanical field.
Tell me about yourself.
I was born and raised in San Bernadino. I’ve been living in Victorville for about a year with my parents and siblings. I’m 26 years old and the oldest in the family.
Any other family?
Well, I got a Doberman puppy named Clutch. he turned one in February.
That’s an interesting name for a dog.
When I got Clutch I was going through a hard time. I felt like he came into my life at the perfect moment, he literally “came in clutch”. Plus, I wanted him to be named after a car part.
Where did your interest in electrical things come from?
Where did your interest in electrical things come from?I liked taking things apart and putting them back together; or trouble shooting. It’s like a puzzle for me. It scratches my brain. I started with smaller things first, like my skateboard and then built up to cars.
Tell me about your cars.
I’m saving up some money to finish building my cars and buy another project car. I’ve got a 2015 Ford Focus ST that’s modified, it’s full bolt on and tuned. Then I have my daily, regular commuter car, a 2025 Honda Civic.
How did you get interested in racing?
I’ve loved cars since I was younger. It will always be a passion of mine. My parents have supported me with anything my heart desires. And I’ve been a bit of an overachiever; I had the mentality that hard work is going to pay off. I just believe everything will fall into place and that everything happens for a reason. And… I thought I would learn about wiring harnesses in the Electrical Program LOL.
How did you find SJVC?
My Mom worked there for one, as a Medical Assisting Instructor. There was an opening for an Engagement Coordinator at the campus so I took the opportunity. Since I worked there, I got an inside scoop on the Electrical Program and figured I’ll give it a shot.
Was it hard being a woman in an electrical class with all men?
Was it hard being a woman in an electrical class with all men?No, I honestly had so many positive moments. I’ve always been in male dominated areas; I used to skateboard, I’m into cars – I’m used to it. Mentally prepared for it. I loved the support I got from all the men in my class. Even though at first, I was terrified of having to use a hand bender in front of them.
What’s a hand bender?
It’s a hand tool to bend conduit, you know metal pipe. We have to bend pipes in certain degrees or shapes for a clean layout and wire management. I was so concerned about messing up and getting put down by the guys in my class. I was trying to mentally prepare for backlash, but once they were giving me pointers and pushed me to do it, it was very encouraging. I realized it was my internal fear I had to deal with, not so much of them. They were so supportive. It’s rare sometimes to receive that support as a woman.
How many women were in your class?
When I started, depending on the program’s schedule, I was the only woman in the class. At one point there were three women once the advanced classes overlapped.
Do you see more inclusion of women in the electrical field in the future?
I will absolutely say there are so many more women getting in the trades. Right now, there are about six women students in the Electrical program. It’s growing and I love that. We need them in the trades!
What would you say to those women who have the interest and intelligence and yet are hesitating because the industry is so dominated by men right now?
Don’t let the men be the reason you stop. You have to have a backbone in this field. Take the right steps; do the work. I say go for it! I like to say “Full Send it!” – I’ll always be an advocate for women.
You’ve been called a trailblazer by your instructors. Would you do anything to change the culture of the industry to welcome more women into it?
I think it will just take time. I don’t think there is much that I would change; just having more women role models, like a female instructor, would be great. Maybe I might be the first one!
If you could advise any reader of this article what would be your best advice to give them for how to succeed at SJVC?
One of my favorite mottos is: “If you’re tired, do it tired.” I can’t emphasize enough to accept if you’re doing the work, you’re going to be tired. I work 70-hour weeks, but I have my end goals to focus on and accomplish. It keeps me going; I thrive for success.
Is there anyone you would like to thank at SJVC for the support and guidance they gave you?
First my mom, she is extremely proud that I found my element and brags about it. And then all my instructors, they’ve always supported me and gave me the right guidance to prepare for the field. I’m forever grateful for having them as a part of my journey.
I hope you get the opportunity to influence a lot of other women coming through!
Thanks. Me too.