Deb Haaland tours CNM’s Workforce Training Facilities, Showcases Trade Job Opportunities

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Today, Deb Haaland, candidate for Governor of New Mexico, toured Central New Mexico Community College’s Ted Chavez Trades and Technologies Center to be briefed on workforce training programs. This visit showcased job and education opportunities in the trades, as the workforce retires and as prices rise with New Mexicans needing high-paying jobs.

Haaland is a proponent of programs that support students who do not want to follow the ‘traditional’ college route, and as governor plans to establish a career pathways program that aims to bring job training into middle and high school. 

“Our state has so many bright minds and the path to success doesn’t need to look the same for everyone. With programs offered at CNM and the Opportunity Scholarship, New Mexicans have the chance to pursue career paths that lead to high-paying jobs. These programs need to be scaled so more New Mexicans can get jobs that not only pay the bills, but have benefits and pay enough to save for the future,” said Haaland. “These programs have expanded in the past couple of years, imagine what can be done when we inspire kids at a younger age.” 

CNM’s workforce training programs have seen an increase in enrollment in the last six years and recently opened a new center to support their programming. The tour included a look at the school’s welding, HVAC, carpentry, electric, and auto and electric vehicle programs.

Haaland understands that not everyone wants to or needs to go to college. New Mexico has workforce shortages that need to be filled. Good paying jobs in welding, auto service, and construction allow families to put food on the table and pay their rent. As governor, Haaland will be laser focused on making sure families are stable, secure, and can afford the necessities.