Yelitza works on the career pathways team to empower young people to connect with careers in forestry. She collaborates with educators and community organizations to create pathways for youth to contribute meaningfully to environmental stewardship. Prior to joining American Forests, she was a science teacher and museum educator. She holds an environmental science degree from Earlham College, and a master of science degree in biology from the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. She lives in Edinburg, Texas.