Haaland To Expand Workforce Pipeline Starting in Middle and High School 

Albuquerque, N.M. – Deb Haaland, the democratic nominee for governor in New Mexico, understands that workforce shortages exist across industries in the state. To grow industries and ensure talent stays in New Mexico, young people need to be able to find opportunity here when they enter the workforce. 

If elected, Haaland will expand the workforce pipeline by bringing the trades back to schools and preparing students with the knowledge to choose a career path that’s best for them. 

Haaland’s plan for a schools-to-careers pipeline will:

• Expand career pathways starting in middle school.
• Cultivate the next generation of skilled trades-workers starting in middle school by partnering with experienced, quality union apprenticeship programs.
• Expand and stabilize funding for Career Technical Education.
• Expand non-trades and non-college jobs training in high schools and community colleges, such as hospitality, arts and entertainment, and tech programs.
• Partner with New Mexico-based employers to provide training in public schools.
• Increase support for students with disabilities by offering more pre-apprenticeship opportunities that prepare them for workforce participation.

Haaland, a first-generation college graduate, understands the challenges of navigating higher education. She believes in options for those who don’t want to attend college and those who follow a different pathway. Her plan includes preparing students with knowledge to choose a career that fits their goals and talents. Haaland is committed to ensuring every New Mexican has the opportunity to shape their future and find economic stability in a changing economy.