Staff Bios Learn more about us
Marla Archer Accounts Payable/Receivable Specialist
Marla Archer is an experienced Accounts Payable/Receivable Specialist with a strong background in financial operations, invoice processing, and account reconciliation. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to accuracy, Marla ensures timely payments, manages vendor relationships, and maintains up-to-date financial records. Her expertise includes managing billing cycles, resolving discrepancies, and supporting month-end closing processes. Marla is dedicated to streamlining workflows, improving efficiency, and contributing to the overall financial health of the organization.
Zachary Carrillo Sales Representative
Zachary Carrillo is a results-driven sales and customer relationship professional with a deep-rooted passion for agriculture and animal nutrition. With a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from the University of Minnesota Crookston, Zachary combines technical expertise with a hands-on background in the agribusiness and animal husbandry sector. He has a proven track record of managing multi-state territories, driving sales for equine, poultry, and livestock feeds through consultative relationship-building and strategic retail partnerships.
Lindsey Close Director of Operations
Lindsey Close joined Elk Grove Milling, Inc. in 2014 as a dispatcher and has steadily advanced through the company, holding positions in outside sales, operations management, and sales management. She currently serves as Director of Operations. Lindsey brings an extensive background in equine management and nutrition, holding multiple degrees and certificates in animal science with an equine specialization. She is a certified Professional Animal Scientist, Equine through ARPAS, and a certified equine nutrition advisor through Legacy Equine. Committed to continuous learning, Lindsey is currently pursuing an MBA with an equine cornerstone project. In addition to her role at Elk Grove Milling, Lindsey teaches online animal science courses at Santa Rosa Junior College, manages an equine retirement boarding facility, and competes in various equestrian disciplines with her personal horses.
Rene Ramirez Maintenance Technician Manager
Rene Ramirez brings decades of invaluable experience as a maintenance technician manager in the manufacturing industry. His expertise lies in facility maintenance, where he plays a crucial role in quality control, project management, and implementing significant improvements to scale efficiency and safety. Rene is responsible for managing preventative maintenance schedules and possesses diverse skills in welding, electrical work, and landscaping. With his many contributions to the company, he is also an integral part of a communication liaison between departments with being bilingual in Spanish. When he’s not ensuring operations run smoothly, Rene enjoys tackling handyman projects, spending time with his family, and being with his horses.
Pascual Ruiz Warehouse/Distribution Manager
With over 25 years of manufacturing experience, Pascual is a vital asset to Elk Grove Milling, Inc. He joined us from Nature’s Best Pelleting and quickly rose through the ranks, from Production to leadership roles in Customer Service. Pascual is instrumental in our distribution efforts, having previously been a delivery driver and maintaining his commercial license to assist with freight as needed. His extensive skill set includes being bilingual in Spanish, heavy equipment operation, forklift training, and expertise in DOT and FMCSA regulations. For over 12 years, he has held upper management positions and plays a key leadership role in our FSMA feed safety and HACCP programs. Pascual’s exceptional commitment to customer service, organization, meticulous record-keeping, and “one-team” work ethic make him an invaluable member of our management team.
Brooke Shelton Customer Service, Inside Sales & Regulatory Compliance
Brooke has been a dedicated member of the Elk Grove Milling team for seven years, contributing across a variety of roles and departments. Her current responsibilities include customer service, inside sales, and regulatory compliance—areas where her experience and commitment excellence truly stand out.
Driven by a lifelong passion for horses and equine management, Brooke brings a wealth of practical knowledge to the table. Her hands-on background in operating training and equestrian event facilities, along with her deep understanding of equine care and nutrition, allows her to genuinely connect with customers and offer informed, relatable advice.
Brooke holds an associate degree and is actively working toward her bachelor’s degree to further enhance her expertise in the field. For Brooke, sharing her love for our feeds is more than a job—it’s a natural extension of her belief in the benefits Stable Mix delivers to horses and horse owners every day!
Ashley Tafoya Office Supervisor
Ashley Tafoya joined Elk Grove Milling as a Dispatcher, and has since promoted to an Office Supervisor position. She brings a lifelong foundation in the equine industry and a deep commitment to serving the agriculture community. Raised around horses, Ashley has spent her entire life working hands-on in the industry — from being a farrier and participating in rodeo, to working alongside professional horse trainers and teaching youth in livestock and horsemanship programs. She is passionate about helping kids succeed in the show ring and supporting families with their livestock projects.
Ashley combines her strong communication skills, industry knowledge, and customer-focused mindset to ensure efficient scheduling, accurate orders, and a smooth experience for every customer. She is excited to be part of the Elk Grove Milling team and to continue supporting the horses and people she cares so deeply about.
Charlene Truong Customer Service Representative/Office Administration
Since joining EGM on November 28th, 2022, I have been committed to delivering exceptional support for the efficient operation of the company. My organizational skills and attention to detail have made me a key asset in ensuring smooth administrative functions and enhancing overall productivity. I am dedicated to understanding and meeting the needs of EGM customers, ensuring their satisfaction.
In my free time, I enjoy cooking, Foodie adventures, boba, and spending time with my pets which allows me to unwind.
Key Skills/Specialization:
– Communication and interpersonal skills
– Specializes in resolving customer inquiries efficiently
– Bilingual in Lao language
Vicente "Vincent" Villada Production Manager
Vicente “Vincent” Villada brings over three decades of dedicated service to EGM. Starting his career as a hay drag operator, stacker, and bagger, he steadily progressed through various roles, including customer service, mixer, and mill operator. For the past two decades, Vicente has distinguished himself as a highly effective Production Manager. His key skills include operating forklifts, front-end loaders, and hay squeezes. He can also navigate new custom milling projects with expertise and understands the process of manufacturing as more of an art form when working with new ingredients. Vicente also plays a key leadership role in our FSMA feed safety and HACCP programs. He holds certifications in HACCP, ISO 9001:2015, and CPR. Vicente is also a college graduate. When he is not dedicating his time to EGM, he enjoys taking his grandkids fishing.