James Arellano, 1962 graduate, enlisted in the U.S. Army following graduation and served the military as a distinguished career telecommunications officer for twenty years. While serving in the military, James earned his Associates Degree in general studies from the Georgia Military College.

After his retirement from the military in 1982, James earned a BA in mangement from the University of Phoeniz in 1986 and a MS in information management in 1988 from Golden State University in San Francisco.

In 1983, James became a member of the startup team of the MANDEX Corporation, a company serving the armed forces in converting analog to digital communications systems, located in Sierra Vista, Ca. He served as a telecommunications specialist but was promoted to project director that same year. Subsequently, James was promoted to Director of New Jersey MANDEX operations where he managed 300 employees.

In 1990, James joined CABACO, Inc., located in Sierra VIsta, Az. as a minority owner. The company provides technical and administrative support services to all branches of the armed forces. Over an eleven year period, James served CABACO in various capacities including vice-president, corporate secretary-treasurer, member of the board of directors, corporate information officer, and acting chief financial officer.

In the private sector, James has been involved in various civic, service, and professional organizations including the National Contract Management Association, Rotary International, chairman of the Sierra Vista, Az. City Council Citizens' Advisory Committee, member of the Sierra Vista Arizona University Foundation, member of the Association of the U.S. Army, member of the Sierra Vista Arizona League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC). James is also a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion.