History

History of PMAA

The Personnel Management Association of Aztlan (PMAA) was founded in Southern California in 1970 by a group of Hispanic Human Resource executives from the public and private sectors. The founding group consisted of Fred Rodriguez, Elmer Montano, Carlos Solis, and Bill Izabel.  The objective of the founders was to form an organization of professional Hispanics who would work together towards achieving equal employment opportunities and assist in the professional development of Hispanics.

Throughout the years, PMAA members have been invited to serve on commissions, personnel review boards, and advisory boards on local, state and national levels.  PMAA has been a tremendous resource for members and non-members seeking employment for career-enhancing jobs.

At one time, PMAA had active chapters in San Diego, San Jose, San Franciso, and Sacramento.  At present, Los Angeles is the lone chapter which remains active and meets monthly at Tamayo's Restaurant, 5300 East Olympic Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90022.  Monthly meetings feature speakers who cover various topics related to the professional growth of PMAA members.

PMAA has a history of sponsoring important events such as the Human Resource Conference held at the Century Plaza in Los Angeles, California; as well as sponsoring two female members to the International Women's Conference in Mexico City.  PMAA has also co-sponsored with Whittier College Career Awareness Workshops for high school and college students, and has conducted student Career Workshops with CSU Fullerton, Cal State Los Angeles, USC, and UCLA.

Members of PMAA met with (then) U.S. Attorney Reynolds in Washington D.C. and presented a plan for redistricting the Los Angeles Supervisorial Districts.  This plan resulted in the first Hispanid being voted to the Board of Supervisors, who subsequently developed and wrote a handbook entitled, "PMAA Mexican American/Chicano Affirmative Action Handbook", as well as a tri-monthly newsletter to keep chapters aware of PMAA activities and other activities related to Human Resource issues.

Past noteworthy members include Tony Gallegos (past EEOC Chairperson) and Joe Baca (presently the U.S. Congressional Representative from San Bernardino County).  PMAA has been a strong contributor and participant in Professional Development, Community Involvement, Leadership/Advocacy, Student Scholarships and Activities, and Employment Resources.