The AVAILABILITY TEAM

Lynda joined AVAILABILITY in 1986 as a recruiter and became a partner in 1991—launching a career journey that has truly been the reward of a lifetime. Nearly four decades later, her passion for the work hasn’t faded; she continues to love being part of an industry where lives are changed every single day.

For much of her career, Lynda was a hands-on working owner specializing in high-level executive search. Today, she focuses her time on mentoring, developing, and supporting the next generation of leaders at AVAILABILITY, ensuring the company’s heart-led culture continues to thrive.

Lynda and her husband, Bill, have three children, six grandchildren, and two dogs who keep life full and joyful. Four years ago, they made the leap and moved to Bentonville, Arkansas to be closer to family—an unexpected blessing, as Lynda quickly fell in love with the area. NWA has proven to be a nature-lover’s paradise; when she’s not working, you’ll likely find her exploring local trails with her dogs, boating on Beaver Lake, or spending time with her grandkids.

In 2022, Lynda’s career expanded once again when she and her long-time business partner, Chris Peterson, joined forces with Alexa Yates to launch APS Health & Infusion Nursing Services. Based in Northwest Arkansas and now staffing in 19 states, the company has quickly grown into a trusted leader in specialized in-home infusion care.

Chris grew up in the Central Valley and is a graduate of Turlock High School (Go Bulldogs!). He left the area to attend San Jose State University to obtain his B.S. in Business Management. He started his career as a credit manager in the road construction industry. After returning to the Central Valley in 1991, he spent 20 years in the business products industry. In 2011, Chris became a principal with AVAILABILITY, and immediately began to expand APS’s position as a premier executive search and staffing company. Chris enjoys time with his family. He and his wife have 3 children, and they are dog lovers as well. They enjoy travel, golf, local arts and restaurants.

Born and raised in Fresno, Candace has been a Central Valley girl from the start. She attended Fresno State University and was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority. After relocating to Modesto, Candace started her family and her career in health care staffing. Candace knew almost instantly that she had found her calling— finding the right person for the perfect practice! Candace has been a pillar in the AVAILABILITY office since 2007. She leads the healthcare services placement division and brings over 30 years experience in health care placement. When Candace isn’t finding the right fit she is visiting and enjoying her 5 grandchildren, gardening, wine tasting, walking, listening to music and just being with family and friends.

Wendy grew up in the Central Valley. She is part of the Executive Search process providing high level support to the team. In her spare time, she enjoys going to the gym, hiking, traveling, and spending time with friends and family. Her industry knowledge, along with prior management experience and organizational skills is the PERFECT addition to the AVAILABILITY office.

Roy believes that every great company starts with great people—and that building strong teams begins with strong relationships. He’s driven by helping businesses grow through honest conversations, practical guidance, and a deep understanding of what makes the Central Valley workforce unique. His consultative approach comes from a genuine passion for supporting local employers and making hiring feel clear, strategic, and human.

Before joining APS, Roy spent ten years as Director of Marketing for a local Hospital, blending strategic communication with deep community engagement. He remains active in the Modesto community through Leadership Modesto, Modesto Rotary, and the Salvation Army’s annual initiatives.

A Modesto resident for more than 25 years, Roy is known for his relationship-driven leadership style and commitment to exceptional customer service. Outside of work, he enjoys time with his wife and children, staying involved in their many sports and school activities, and spending summer weekends on the water. At home, the family is rounded out by their two dogs and a Sulcata tortoise who keeps everyone entertained.

Brittany is a Central Valley girl at heart. She was born and raised in Stockton, but moved to San Diego where she attended SDSU and was a member of Alpha Phi Sorority. After earning her degree in Marketing Brittany decided to stick around the San Diego area and began her management career in hospitality. It wasn’t too long before Brittany realized the sun and sand were great, but her heart was with her family in Northern California. She moved back to Stockton in 2014 and that is when she started her career as a Staffing Consultant and Recruiter for professional services. When Brittany isn’t helping people find their next career opportunity you can find her playing with her niece and nephew or exploring the outdoors with her German Shepard, Bear.

Jennifer Garcia was born and raised in the Central Valley. With the support of her family she was able to become a first-generation graduate student from CSU Stanislaus with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. However, she is a strong believer that education doesn’t end after acquiring a degree; education is a lifelong process making everyday a learning experience. Jennifer is known for her kind and humble personality, and when she is not at work she likes to spend time with her family, listen and dance to some Latino music or go on a road trip.

Melinda Zurita Mendoza is the HR Administrator here at Availability Professional Staffing with years of experience in the Human Resource department. Melinda was born and raised in the Central Valley where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration at CSU Stanislaus. Melinda is a powerful force in the workplace who uses her positive attitude and tireless energy to help others succeed. However, outside of work, you will always find Melinda traveling to new places and enjoying local food events.

Bridget is an Executive Recruiter with a diverse background recruiting across multiple industries, which ultimately led her to develop a strong passion for recruiting HR and organizational support professionals. She thrives on creating meaningful connections that lead to long-lasting relationships and finds fulfillment in supporting individuals as they navigate and grow in their careers. Her work is grounded in thoughtful guidance, clear communication, and partnerships that extend well beyond a single placement.

Based in Denver, Colorado, Bridget embraces everything the mountains have to offer. She can often be found outdoors enjoying her favorite activities, including skiing, hiking, camping, traveling, and spending quality time with friends and family.