Vel has forty-four years experience with riding and handling horses and thirty-nine years experience as a trail guide. She worked part-time as a Wrangler and riding instructor at Kay El Bar Guest Ranch 1992-1999. She was a Reservations Assistant Wrangler at Wickenburg Inn from 1989-1990. She was a Drag rider for Desert Forest Competitive Trail Rides for five years, a Wrangler for the American Quarter Horse Association Wickenburg Trail Ride (hosting 75 to 100 riders) each year, 2000 through 2005. She also worked as Trainer and stallion manager for Cross Creek Ranch in Wickenburg from 1988 to 1998, raising and starting colts under saddle, for sale.

Certified Level II riding instructor for stock seat and recreational riding through American Riding Instructors Association since 2000. She has been giving private and group instructions for riding/horsemanship since 1992. Currently, she is studying English/Dressage riding in preparation for Level III testing.

Vel is a Certified Equine Specialist through EAGALA (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association) since 2002. She has attended four Level I trainings instructed by the founders Greg Kersten and Lynn Thomas, in Parker, Colorado, Wickenburg, and Phoenix. Vel wrote the Equine Program now in use at Rosewood Ranch Women’s Center.

Vel has attended two Ray Hunt horsemanship clinics, riding and auditing. She also attended two clinics “From the Horse’s Point of View” facilitated by Harry Whitney.

Her other past work experience includes: Environmental Services Coordinator/Safety Officer/Maintenance Operations Coordinator for seven years at Rosewood Women’s center for Eating Disorders, Equine Assistant for one year at Remuda Ranch Center for Anorexia and Bulimia. Supervisor position in Environmental Services at Wickenburg Hospital for two years. Various positions in the hospitality industry, including front desk clerk and night auditor. She was self employed for two years, boarding and training horses.

Vel has been a member of the Wickenburg Saddle Club for ten years, serving two years as President, and one year as arena judge. As part of this she conducted horsemanship and showmanship clinics for club members.

Vel’s hobbies include most outdoor activities, and reading.