Two Women. Decades of Experience. One Vision Forward.
Melinda Martinez brings over 20 years of automotive experience, serving in pivotal roles across the industry — from Sales to Management, Regional Leadership, and ultimately Vice President of Sales. Her deep understanding of customer needs and dealership operations drives the heart of Ascent Motors. Vanessa Mata offers 15+ years of expertise in the critical back-office engine of the business. Her background includes serving as Compliance Director, VP of Operations, VP of Marketing & Lead Generation, and Chief Process Officer. Her strategic leadership has shaped high-performing teams and scalable systems across multiple departments.
Together, as powerful women owners, we are opening doors for women who still feel this industry “is not for us.”
Ascent Motors, will prove that women belong in leadership, in innovation, and at the forefront of automotive excellence.
Experience. Leadership. Empowerment. This is the Ascent difference.
Melinda Martinez
Vanessa Mata
I began my career in the auto industry nearly 15 years ago as a cashier, never imagining how far the journey would take me. Through dedication, curiosity, and strong leadership, I worked my way through every major department including executive roles.
Learning the business from the ground up gave me a deep understanding of what it takes to run a dealership with integrity, efficiency, and heart. Today, I’m proud to take everything I’ve learned and pour it into Ascent Motors, a dealership built on experience, innovation, and trust.
What excites me most is the opportunity to pay it forward. The industry opened doors for me, and now I’m committed to creating those same opportunities for my team-so that one day, they can own their own dealership too.
Ascent Motors is more than a business. It’s a platform for growth, leadership, and breaking barriers—especially for women who may have felt this industry wasn’t made for them.
Together, we’re changing that. Together, we’re driving forward.