Thursday, September 04, 2025 / Categories: Department News Governor proclaims September Workforce Development Month New Mexico joins other states in celebrating workforce development Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has proclaimed September 2025 Workforce Development Month in New Mexico, underscoring the state’s commitment to ensuring well-compensated and meaningful work and calling on workforce leaders to prioritize preparation for high-demand industries and occupations. “Workforce development is at the heart of New Mexico’s economic growth,” said Secretary Sarita Nair, of the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions (NMDWS). “By investing in training and career pathways, we empower individuals to succeed and ensure our employers have the skilled workforce they need to thrive.” Throughout September, NMDWS and America’s Job Center New Mexico (AJCNM) will host events, workshops, and career fairs to connect job seekers with employment and training opportunities and businesses to resources, hiring support, training, and retention.NMDWS and AJCNM provide services and strategies that support job seekers, businesses, and communities across the state including: Career counseling at America’s Job Centers Events advancing New Mexico’s high-demand industriesTraining opportunities with statewide education providersWork-based learning programs such as registered apprenticeships and Pre-apprenticeship Opportunity Programs (POPs) The Be Pro Be Proud mobile unit, offering simulated career experiences to youth across the stateOnline tools to understand wages and qualifications for specific jobsWorkforce programs serving targeted populations under the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), including veterans, people with disabilities, tribal communities, and individuals re-entering the workforce after incarcerationNMDWS programs and partnerships are making a difference in people’s lives every day: At just 19 years old, David, from Rio Rancho, New Mexico, became the primary caregiver for his younger sister after his father’s incarceration and his mother’s absence. With support from the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Youth program, he gained training, certifications and an on-the-job placement at America’s Tire and Service, turning his passion for mechanics into a career path. Today, David has built stability for himself and his sister while earning valuable credentials such as his OSHA 10 certificate—proving that with determination and the right support, young people can overcome adversity and thrive. At the America’s Job Center in Farmington, a person receiving Unemployment Insurance met with a Career Transition Specialist to ask questions about their claim. While there, they received a warm handoff to a Career Consultant, who helped update their resume and prepare them for a job fair the next day at the public library. At the fair, they met with the employer Welbrook Transitional Rehabilitation and were hired on the spot. After receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and working a minimum-wage job, Miranda, a New Mexico mother, said the Wage Subsidy program gave her the chance to change her future. “I never imagined I could have an office job or support my kids on my own. Thanks to this program, I gained new skills, support from my team and the confidence to pursue a career with the state. If I can do it, anyone can.” These stories reflect the mission of Workforce Development Month: helping New Mexicans build careers, strengthening businesses, and preparing the workforce for the future. For more information on workforce resources and upcoming events, visit www.dws.state.nm.us or contact your local America’s Job Center New Mexico.