First cohort of Industry Credential Pipeline Program graduates sign with NMDOT

Monday, November 03, 2025

First cohort of Industry Credential Pipeline Program graduates sign with NMDOT

Ten new graduates signed with the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) upon completing the first Industry Credential Pipeline Program, a workforce partnership between NMDOT, the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions (NMDWS), and in partnership with CNM Ingenuity, during a special signing ceremony held on Oct. 31.

At the event, graduates of the 10-week paid training program signed employment agreements with NMDOT to start their state careers as Highway Maintenance Workers. The event marked the culmination of hands-on, real-world training with industry-recognized certifications that built a skilled, job-ready workforce to fill high-demand roles in New Mexico’s transportation sector.

“This program demonstrates what’s possible when state agencies work together to create real career pathways. By combining training, certifications, and hands-on experiences, we’re opening the door for more New Mexicans to build long-term careers in transportation,” said NMDOT Secretary Ricky Serna. “When we align workforce training with industry needs, everyone benefits from our new employees to our communities, and the future of New Mexico’s transportation system.”

“Through a shared vision, this partnership of education, workforce development, and career opportunities has prepared these participants for lifelong careers right here in New Mexico,” said NMDWS Secretary Sarita Nair. “By investing in people and practical training, we’re ensuring that our state’s infrastructure is supported by skilled professionals.”

Program graduates earned the following industry-recognized credentials:

Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) – funded by CNM Ingenuity

NMDOT 101 & 201 Heavy Equipment Training – funded by NMDOT

OSHA 10 Certification

Flagger Certification

Vehicle Preventative Maintenance Certification

“At CNM, we’re always ready, willing, and able to engage in partnerships that deliver powerful results for learners, employers, and our state’s economy,” said CNM President Tracy Hartzler. “That’s why we were proud to engage in this workforce initiative with the New Mexico Department of Transportation and Workforce Solutions. This partnership is preparing New Mexicans – like our outstanding graduates today -- for high-demand careers in the transportation industry through hands-on, real-world training that leads to industry credentials. We look forward to working with our great partners to grow this initiative and deliver more workforce solutions for New Mexico.”

Individuals interested in learning more about training and employment opportunities through NMDWS or NMDOT programs can contact their nearest America’s Job Center New Mexico. A list of locations is available at https://www.dws.state.nm.us/Office-Locations.