About the Artist

Alicia Mendoza, a high school senior and proud FFA member, combines craftsmanship with creativity to produce truly distinctive work. Adopted at the age of nine by Candy and David Engel, Alicia was raised on the family ranch in Bergheim, Texas, where her love for hands-on work first took root. Her journey into welding began as a freshman, when she decided to try a class that "sounded fun." With encouragement from her brother-who reminded her it was a skill worth knowing-Alicia discovered a passion that quickly grew into an art form. Since then, she has honed her skills and earned recognition for her talent, including the honor of Grand Reserve Champion at her local county fair.