Garcia has had a diverse and multi-faceted career, working both in public service and her own business. Assemblywoman Garcia has worked hard to create a better life for herself and her family.

Her career in public service spans more than a decade, during which she has acquired expertise in public administration, public safety and quality housing. Assemblywoman Garcia has worked for two Southern California cities, where she led teams to address the escalating crime wave targeting blighted areas. She secured grants to assist low-income homeowners with repairs and established neighborhood crime prevention programs.

Immediately prior to being elected to the Assembly, Garcia worked as a senior legislative aide for Senator Jim Battin, overseeing all local government and public safety programs and implementing educational outreach within the Hispanic community.

One of five children, Garcia was born on the lower east side of New York to teen parents who later divorced. Early in life, however, she called upon her indomitable spirit to overcome crushing poverty and a crime-ridden neighborhood. After many years of taking night and weekend classes, she earned a bachelor of science degree in Workforce Education and Development from Southern Illinois University.

Assemblywoman Garcia has served on many community boards to increase access to education, healthcare and small business opportunities. She is currently a member on the Advisory Board of California YMCA Model Legislature and Model Court.