Helping people help themselves is what new Access Programs’ Assistant Rachel Lutjens enjoys most about her work. Passionate about making a difference, Lutjens knows changing the world starts by helping people to find success in life through encouragement and use of available resources. Respecting the inherent dignity and worth of others, she says helping people overcome obstacles and difficulties and making the most of themselves is both rewarding and challenging. “I’m a people person, I love to be busy, and I enjoy a good challenge,” she declared.

Lutjens grew up in Ridgecrest and attended classes at Cerro Coso before transferring to the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma where she earned an Associate’s Degree in Liberal Arts and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. Family and friends drew her back to Ridgecrest where she married the love of her life Robert last summer. Her work experience includes social work for a girls’ group home, Child Protective Services, and Dart. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, movies, and Zumba. Lutjens just joined a book club and she attempts to walk 10,000 steps a day.

In addition to her part-time work at the college, Lutjens is also a part-time Office Manager at the Ridgecrest Chamber of Commerce working on a special Membership Drive. Cerro Coso welcomes Lutjens to the team where she will assist Access Programs students in obtaining their academic, career, and personal goals.