We had the good fortune of connecting with Kellie Ambrosia and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kellie, what habits do you feel play an important role in your life?
Growing up, I was always a people pleaser. I’ve also been the one to help, do as much as I can to be there for people and please those around me. As I’ve grown older, advanced in my career, and grown with the world around me, I’ve learned to set boundaries, especially around my time. What I focus on, who I share my love with, and how much I give to my work and side projects is determined by me. Knowing my limits and how to say “No more” has taken quite a bit of time to learn and get used too. But it has helped my mental health, and my relationships.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
For my day job, I am an Associate Technology Project Manager for an Environment Consulting company. It is a nationwide company. I support many aspects of the Technology department, assist and oversee projects, and support the staff throughout the company.

In part of my spare time, I work part time for Phoenix Fan Fusion as the Director of Operations. I oversee several teams, the Exhibitor Hall, the costuming groups that have space in the hall, and work closely with many of the facilities, government entities, and service partners to run the event.

In the other part of my spare time, I am the Commanding Officer/President of The 501st Legion Dune Sea Garrison. We are a Star Wars charity costuming club that shares our love of Star Wars with the communities and charities of Arizona.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
There are many places we would go. The Silver Key Lounge for board gaming, Mill for eclectic shopping and atmosphere, up to Jerome for a day trip of Arizona history, hiking at South Mountain, maybe a few days up at the Grand Canyon or another National Forest, Roosevelt Row for more food and breweries, Superstition Meadery for some of the best Mead in Arizona.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
In the nerd communities there are many Costuming and Cosplay Groups. There are several groups that focus on Star Wars. Especially here in Arizona. There is the 501st Legion Dune Sea Garrison, the Rebel Legion Mos Eisley Base, the AZ Mando Mercs, and The Dark Empire Twin Sun Spire. While Ray Mora is an honorary member of some of the groups, he has been an integral part of all of our groups. He has joined us at events to take pictures, share laughs, and show his love of the Arizona Communities.

Website: https://www.duneseagarrison.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DuneSeaGarrison

Image Credits
Ray Mora took all of these pictures at various events that the Arizona Star Wars clubs attended.

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.