Howie Morales, a Democrat from Silver City, was elected Lieutenant Governor of New Mexico in November, 2018, along with Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham. Prior to becoming the state’s 30th Lieutenant Governor, he served in the New Mexico Senate for 11 years on the influential State Legislative Finance Committee. Howie attended Silver High School in Grant County. He put himself through Western New Mexico University, where he earned degrees in Education, and later earned a PhD in Education from New Mexico State University – going on to be a classroom teacher and successful coach for a decade. Throughout his public career, Howie has been an outspoken leader for New Mexico’s students, educators, and classrooms. A working partner to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, and the only Hispanic Governor/Lieutenant Governor team in the U.S. today - Howie has been a strong voice for vulnerable residents of our state, and a key advocate for rural communities.
Speaker of the New Mexico House of Representatives
Javier Martínez is the 31st Speaker of the New Mexico House of Representatives. He has represented Albuquerque's House District 11 since 2015 and previously served as the Majority Floor Leader and Chairman of the House Taxation & Revenue Committee. As the child of immigrants who spent his early life along the southern border, Speaker Martínez has dedicated his career to helping New Mexico families create brighter futures for their children. Speaker Martínez has been at the helm of some of New Mexico’s biggest policy wins for working families, including making the tax system more equitable with measures like the Child Income Tax credit, providing millions in sustained funding for early childhood education, and protecting voting rights for all of our diverse communities with the New Mexico Voting Rights Act. Speaker Martínez graduated from the UNM School of Law with honors in International and Comparative Law and the Southwest Indian Law Clinic. Since then, he has continued to advocate for New Mexico's most vulnerable families at the local, state, and national levels. He has fought to ensure access to health care for all families, including immigrant families, advocated for smart growth policies, pushed for permanent investments in early childhood education, and fought tirelessly to protect civil rights for all.
Cabinet Secretary, New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions
Secretary Nair previously served as Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Albuquerque. Prior to her work with the city, she was the Chief Governmental Accountability Office and General Counsel of the Office of the State Auditor. She holds a law degree and Masters of Community and Regional Planning from the University of New Mexico.
Assistant Secretary, U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Career Technical and Adult Education
Amy Loyd, Ed.L.D., is the Assistant Secretary for the Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education at the U.S. Department of Education. In this role, she oversees national programs related to career and technical education, community colleges, adult education and literacy, and correctional education. Prior to joining the Biden-Harris Administration, Dr. Loyd was a Vice President at Jobs for the Future (JFF), where she designed and led programs across the United States that improve education and workforce outcomes. Her work at JFF focused on state and regional policies, practices, and cross-sector partnerships that engaged K-12 education, community colleges, adult education, workforce development, economic development, and employers to build systems of college and career pathways, leveraging career and technical education. She also oversaw JFF’s work in workforce development with a lens on economic advancement, state and federal policy, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. She previously was the Director of Education at Cook Inlet Tribal Council, leading a network of schools providing culturally responsive education, training, and wraparound services to the Alaska Native and Native American communities. Dr. Loyd attended Santa Fe Community College and Northern New Mexico Community College, and holds a bachelor’s degree from St. John’s College and a doctorate in education leadership from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, where she was an adjunct lecturer on building career pathways to increase opportunity and equity.”
Manager of Equity & Culture, Conservation Voters New Mexico
Arturo joined Conservation Voters New Mexico in October 2022 as the Program Associate and became the Manager of Equity and Culture in July 2023. They have lived in the South Valley for the past 20 years and from the age of 13 they’ve made it a priority to be a community organizer and social justice advocate who has focused on various issues such as immigration, LGBTQ+, education, diversity, equity & inclusion. Arturo began their activist journey through joining New Mexico youth advocacy groups such as Generation Justice and the New Mexico Youth Alliance (under the New Mexico Forum for Youth in Community). Through their participation in these groups Arturo learned the importance of working alongside state Senators and Representatives to be involved in the decision-making taking place at the local government level. Arturo graduated from Cornell College in 2017 with a B.A. in Psychology & Spanish and a minor in Civic Engagement. Before joining CVNM, Arturo was the Program Coordinator & Albuquerque Tutor Coordinator with the New Mexico Simon Scholars Program under the Simon Charitable Foundation. This was the first scholarship Arturo received while in High School. Arturo also worked as the Alumni & Families Outreach Coordinator at South Valley Academy (their former High School) under the Kellogg Foundation.
Youth Participant
Graduated from Eldorado High School in 2018. She joined the Central Region WIOA Youth Program in March of 2022 with a goal of pursuing her education to better the life of her and her 3 year old son. She was unemployed and wanted a career. Savannah enrolled in the Medical Assistant program at PIMA. During her enrollment at PIMA, Savannah excelled, maintained a 4.0 GPA, and graduated on time. She started her clinicals in November of 2022 at FIT Medical Weightloss. She successfully completed her clinical hours in January 2023 and earned her Medical Assistant certificate. She was offered full-time employment at FIT Medical Weightloss where she is still currently employed. Savannah is doing well and is grateful to the WIOA program for the financial resources and support that greatly helped her to overcome her barriers and meet her employment goals.
Deputy Cabinet Secretary, New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions
Marcos Martinez is a native New Mexican who grew up in Taos and still has deep family roots within the community. Mr. Martinez has worked in workforce development for the past 25 years. He currently serves as the Employment Services Division Director. Mr. Martinez oversees several Federal Employment programs with annual budgets exceeding $20 million. Mr. Martinez is also responsible for all state workforce staff in the 24 New Mexico Workforce Connection centers across the state. He continues to work on strengthening partnerships with economic development organizations, educational institutions, and businesses around New Mexico.
Manager, Deloitte
Andrea is a Manager in Deloitte’s Government and Public Services Human Capital Consulting practice. She has over eight years of experience delivering people-related services such as workforce development and training, workforce diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), educational equity, Future of Work, employee engagement strategies, and more. She serves as the Workforce DEI Leader for Deloitte’s higher education, state and local government, and non-profit clients and is a leader in Deloitte’s Workforce Development Ecosystems practice. She is also a certified Future of Work Institute™ facilitator. Andrea holds an MBA from University of Chicago, a MS in Management from Wake Forest University, and a BA in Dance from University of Akron.
Housing Program Director, Heading Home
Since migrating to the US in 1977, Dorothee has worked primarily with non-profit organizations that serve the needs of those experiencing homelessness in Albuquerque. Before joining Heading Home, she spent 16 years as the Executive Director of an organization that served women and children. Her love and dedication to this work comes from her deep faith and “an attitude of servitude”. Dorothee joined Heading Home in 2011 as an independent contractor to provide housing coordination for the Albuquerque Heading Home initiative, serving those most chronically homeless and medically fragile. In March 2015, she became the Housing Director of Keeping Families Together, a national demonstration project for child-welfare involved homeless or near homeless families and then assumed responsibility for all of Heading Home’s supportive housing programs. Dorothee has a degree in Business Administration, was a certified law enforcement officer, and is a certified Domestic Violence Advocate. Dorothee has served on numerous boards including the New Mexico Coalition to End Homelessness, the Bernalillo County Accountable Health Communities Advisory Board, and was appointed to the NM Children's Trust Fund Next Generation Council. Since 2015 she has been a board member of the Children’s Justice Act Advisory Group (CJAAG).
DWS Compliance Manager, New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions
Margarito Aragon is the DWS Compliance Manager who works with workforce staff to understand program eligibility, services delivery strategies and primary performance indicators for the Workforce Innovations and Opportunity Act (WIOA). Margarito has extensive knowledge of the federal acts, rules, guidance, and performance accountability systems governing WIOA Title I, WIOA Title III, Jobs for Veterans Act and Migrant Seasonal Farmworker program. After spending 20 years interpreting federal guidance, Margarito continues to develop state policy, train workforce staff, and assist in designing service delivery strategies.
Political Affairs and Outreach Director, Local 412 Plumbers & Pipefitters Union
Most well known for her advocacy work in early childhood education, Joan Baker has shifted her focus to the skilled trades and registered apprenticeship. She is the political affairs directors and Director of Outreach at Local 412 Plumbers & Pipefitters Union and has most recently been recognized as a woman of influence by New Mexico Business First for her efforts in bring skilled trades training into rural and tribal communities. Joan serves as a delegate on the New Mexico Building & Construction Trades Council, is the Affiliate Vice President for New Mexico Federation of Labor, and served on the New Mexico High School Transformation Coalition. Joan has working to improve the lived and opportunities on New Mexicans from Cradle through Career for more than a decade. She served on the governor's education transition team and most recently developed an Apprenticeship Readiness program and partnership with Department of Workforce Solutions.
Ed.D., President, Southeast New Mexico College
Kevin Beardmore, Ed.D., became the first president of Southeast New Mexico College (SENMC) in January 2023. Previously the Carlsbad branch campus of New Mexico State University, SENMC became independent in April 2022 as a result of a highly invested community seeking a greater focus on serving the needs of local business and industry. He previously was Vice President of Student Affairs at Owensboro Community & Technical College in Owensboro, Kentucky, for 15 years, a college well known for its workforce development programming and recognized by the Great Colleges to Work For program for its Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging efforts in 2021, 2022, and 2023.
Special Projects Coordinator, Marketing, Workforce Connection of Central New Mexico
Carmela Beck is a Content Creator, Social Media Manager, and Digital Marketing specialist at NM Workforce Connection who enjoys collaboration and project management to promote the many career services and programs in the Central Region She has worked professionally in public relations, journalism, social media marketing, fundraising, grant writing, and board development. She especially loves creating TikTok videos.
Ph.D., Workforce Program Director, Partnerships & Pipeline Office
Dr. J. Bradley (Brad) Beck is the Workforce Program Director in the Partnerships & Pipelines Office at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL). In this role, Brad is developing and leading institutional efforts to help enhance our strategic partnership pipelines and advance staff development programs. Brad has worked at LANL for over 30 years in a variety of technical organizations: in the Inertial Confinement Fusion Group; the Thermonuclear Applications Group; the Primary Physics Design Group; the National Security Office; the Advanced Simulation and Computing Program; the Materials Physics and Applications Division; and in the Global Security Directorate. During his career at LANL, Brad has held leadership positions for over 20 years in several organizations. From 2000 through 2005, Brad served as the Deputy Group Leader for the Thermonuclear Applications Group. After an assignment to the Advanced Simulation and Computing office in the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA; Department of Energy), he was named Deputy Group Leader for the Primary Physics Design Group, and further served as the group leader for the weapons design group I from 2005 through 2010. During this period, he was one of the LANL co-leads for the Plutonium Pit Lifetime assessment. In 2011, Brad joined the National Security Office that serves as an interface between nuclear weapons policy experts and the technical experts at LANL. In 2017, Brad joined the Global Security Directorate as an executive advisor. In 2017-2018, he served as the Acting Deputy Program Director for the Advanced Simulation and Computing LANL Program office. In 2018, he served as the Acting Deputy Division Leader for the Materials Physics and Applications Division. Over his career, Brad has received 9 awards for his leadership and work (awards include NNSA Defense Program Awards of Excellence, Defense Programs Awards of Excellence, Distinguished Performance Awards, and Distinguished Mentor). Dr. Beck has a Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering from Purdue University.
Project Director, Workforce Integration Network (WIN)
Cristy Wade is the Pre-Apprenticeship Program Coordinator at the Department of Workforce Solutions. She has worked in public service for 13 years, focusing on social services. She enjoys sharing information about resources that empower people to make choices that support their goals and improve their well-being. She has worked with several programs, coordinating services with community partners across the state.
Financial Aid Program Manager, New Mexico Higher Education Department
Mia Candelaria has served as the Financial Aid Program Manager at the New Mexico Higher Education Department since 2014. She has more than 23 years of combined experience in the public and higher education sectors of New Mexico state government. In her role as the Financial Aid Program Manager, she assists in the distribution of over $400 million dollars each year in state financial aid to students in New Mexico. Many of the financial aid programs she directly manages are designed to assist students pursuing health care education. She is New Mexico’s Certifying Officer for the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) which provides Loan-For-Service options to Dentistry, Veterinary and Optometry students. She is also a member of the State Advisory Committee for Education for Homeless Children and Youth. Her passion is educating students, parents and the community about programs and resources that assist with college costs and opportunities.
Statewide Transition Director, New Mexico Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Charlene B. Chavez serves as a Statewide Transition Director for the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, with responsibility for coordinating and developing policy & procedures in the areas of transition across the state of NM. Charlene’s greatest strengths are her drive and leadership. She thrives on challenges, particularly those that expand opportunities for success of students & Adults with disabilities. Her goals are to increase knowledge to the community/business in working with individuals with disabilities. She has a Level Three Pre-K-12 Rehabilitation counselor License, Master’s in Social Work and Bachelor’s degree in Education.
District Resource Counselor, Albuquerque Public Schools
a first-generation college student who recently transitioned to the position of Albuquerque Public Schools (APS) District Resource Counselor for College and Career Readiness. She is an active member of the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) and New Mexico School Counselor Association (NMSCA). She holds an ASCA certification as a Trauma and Crisis Management Specialist, a Master of Arts in School Counseling, and a Bachelor of Science in Biology. She was honored as the APS School Counselor of the Year for the 22-23 school year and has over eleven years of experience working with adolescents at the high school level, and has two teenage sons of her own.
Interim NM Works Program Manager, New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions
Marjorie Christensen is the current Interim TANF Program Manager with the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions. With over nine years of experience working with NM’s low-income families, she specializes in day-to-day operations as well as TANF program and staff development. Prior to taking this role, Marjorie started as a case worker with the NM Human Services Department. Discovering her love of working with the people of NM, she knew she needed to develop her roots in the service of others and transitioned to the NM Work’s Program, now under the Department of Workforce Solutions. Over the years, her strengths in training and staff development have garnered recognition by her peers, team, and leadership throughout NM. Marjorie is from Las Cruces, NM, earning her bachelor’s degree from New Mexico State University. When she is not at work, Marjorie is an avid traveler. She loves spending time with family and friends and puts a lot of attention into experiencing life and not standing idly by. Marjorie currently lives in Albuquerque with her husband, Dr. Richard Zappulla II, and their 3 fur-babies (aka dogs). Marjorie is a leader, operations developer, and team advocate who inspires and empowers those around her to push their personal boundaries to grow and discover who they can be!
Community Employment Coordinator, Albuquerque VA Medical Center
Roberto Christian is a veteran service specialist with almost 10 years of dedicated service helping veterans figure out ways to overcome barriers to employment. During those years he’s worked as a Disabled Veterans Outreach Program Specialist and Intensive Services Coordinator with the New Mexico’s Department of Workforce Solutions and is currently the Community Employment Coordinator at the Albuquerque VA Medical Center. Roberto is passionate about helping veterans obtain adequate housing, medical and/or behavioral care, and a suitable means of creating or increasing their household income.
Trainer, New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions
I spent most of my life in rural Idaho, until moving to New Mexico 8 years ago. I love to read, play board games, and learn about the world around me. My spare time consists of spending time with my family and taking my daughter to Tae Kwon Do.
Director of Client Relations, FutureWork Systems
Lydia Crockett is a front line staff worker-turned-Director of Client Relations passionate about using data to tell a story in a comprehensive, understandable way to ultimately drive decisions. She joined FutureWork Systems, Inc., a company focused on BI applications designed to address workforce development system analytic needs, after 20+ years in private and state-lead workforce systems. Through Lydia’s experiences in case management, performance accountability, process improvement, strategic planning, and program administration, she inherently understands the workforce development user customer and has an unrelenting pursuit of customer-driven focus.
WIOA Director, Jicarilla Apache Nation
It all began with a vision when I was hired. Having an entrepreneurial background and a Degree in Human Services coupled with the skills I learned from business planning, team building, accounting and public speaking gave me the opportunity to put my years of experience to good use to inspire and assist as many people as I can in my community. I recognized different needs that our community faced from having an adult program that was proactive to help, a youth group that needed a foundation for career pathway’s and guidance to carry out soft working skills. The vision was earning the respect from the community because without trust, our program would not be as successful as it has become. The program was creative with supplying services on a shoestring budget but that did not stop our progress from moving forward. This made our W.I.O.A team think outside the box and get things done and find new ways to service our community for both adults and youth. Add to that a fantastic team I get to work with who remain open minded to new development in the workforce we are proudly WIOA!
MA, Behavioral Health Consultant
Ray Daw, MA (Navajo, or Diné), is originally from Houck, Arizona. A graduate from boarding school and UNM, he also served in the US Army. He has been in the behavioral health field for about 35 years working with the Navajo Nation, non-profits and most recently in Alaska. His work in behavioral health has been heavily towards developing Native trauma-appropriate approaches that are healing and effective in tribal behavioral health prevention, Intervention, and treatment services. He also trains in Motivational Interviewing and Historical Trauma. Ray formerly directed Northwest New Mexico Fighting Back, a community alcohol prevention project in the Four Corners region of the Southwest.
Workforce Development Director, Eastern New Mexico Workforce Development Board
Luis De La Cruz is a dedicated professional with a passion for empowering individuals and enhancing his community. As the Workforce Development Director for the Eastern New Mexico Workforce Provider, overseeing Title I Adult, Dislocated Worker, Youth, and One-Stop programs, Luis has demonstrated unwavering commitment to his role for the past three years in the East and two years in the North. Throughout his career, Mr. De La Cruz has led a highly motivated team that shares his enthusiasm for community growth and development. Together, they have implemented multiple innovative strategies to enhance engagement and retention across all workforce programs. Luis firmly believes in equipping participants with the essential tools for success, recognizing that this approach ultimately leads to stronger, more prosperous communities. Luis De La Cruz's dedication to workforce development in New Mexico is not only a testament to his professional expertise but also a reflection of his deep-rooted belief in the transformative power of education, training, and community support.
Executive Director, Eastern Area Workforce Development Board
Beth Elias is the executive director for the Eastern Area Workforce Development Board (EAWDB). She has over twenty-five years’ experience in workforce development. She began her workforce career with Job Corps providing youth services, career counseling, business community outreach and partnership development. She was promoted quickly to program implementation and management. She is passionate about youth services particularly services to youth at risk of being disenfranchised or falling through the cracks of society. She attended Eastern New Mexico University and possesses an extensive knowledge of workforce systems, system design, workforce programs, and youth services. She has a strong background in policy development, data analysis, project planning and management, performance management, staff training and oversight. Her experience makes her uniquely qualified to creatively address ways to improve the effectiveness of the workforce system and to recommend and develop strategies for improvement.
Youth Growth and Development Ambassador, Unearthing Future Opportunities (U.F.O) Program
Jernne Evans is the Youth Growth and Development Ambassador for the Unearthing Future Opportunities (U.F.O.) program at Workforce Connection and works out of the Hobbs office. However, Jernne didn’t get her start within the U.F.O program as an employee but as a participant. In 2021, Jernne came into the Hobbs Workforce Connections office as a home school student who had yet to get their High School Equivalency. She had no work experience and, more often than not, let her shyness get the better of her. During Jernne’s orientation, she could do no more than squeak out “no ma’am” or “yes ma’am” when asked questions. But this would not be the case for very long. Thanks to an amazing, encouraging career coach and programs such as Start-Up Generation, Leadership, and a Work Experience, Jernne became a confident woman with her HSE to boot. She learned to be a leader, team player, public speaker, and professional. After going through the program, Jernne became heavily inspired to help individuals like herself. Through determination and the sheer kindness of the U.F.O program, Jernne is now in a permanent position within the program to learn the skills necessary to become a capable, seasoned career coach.
Adult Education Director, New Mexico Higher Education Department
Amber Gallup is the Director of Adult Education at HED and oversees the adult education and adult literacy systems in New Mexico. She is also a Ph.D. candidate at UNM in Organization, Information, & Learning Sciences, with a research focus on apprenticeship design for frontline workers.
State JTIP Director, New Mexico Economic Development Department
Patrick Gannon is the State Director for the Job Training Incentive Program (JTIP) with the New Mexico Economic Development Department. In this role, Patrick works directly with start-up, early-stage and expanding economic-based businesses throughout the state as well as with companies that are expanding to New Mexico. He has twenty-five years of experience working in both economic and workforce development. Patrick has a bachelor’s degree from UNM, Anderson School of Management.
Regional Manager, ACT
Tony Garife is the Regional Manager for ACT’s Work Ready Communities. In his current role, Tony’s focus is working with state and county leaders that are participating in the ACT Work Ready Communities initiative. Tony has also worked as a State Program Manager at ACT providing job skills assessment systems that helps employers select, hire, train, develop, and retain a high-performance workforce. In addition, Tony has over 20 years of experience with federal financial aid, assisting students with financing their college education. Tony has a Bachelor’s Degree from San Diego State University and a MBA from the University of Washington.
Employment/Business Specialist, New Mexico Workforce Connection
Chicky Lee Gomez is an Employment/Business Specialist for Colfax County. Living in a rural part of New Mexico also means that I have the opportunity to assist in Union county and have partnerships with San Miguel and Mora counties which are also small rural counties. In a rural area it is important that we provide the resources and tools to the communities to help them successfully find and keep employment. I provide many services which include assisting job seekers with creating accounts into WCOS, helping them build resumes, and provide job interview skills. I assist businesses who are currently looking for employees, work with businesses to compose job orders, making sure all job orders are entered into WCOS, and hosting and advertising job fairs for businesses seeking employees. I provide the youth wanting to enter the workforce with work permits. I provide assistance and guidance to individuals filing unemployment and I also assist with re-employment services by conducting RESEA for the unemployed.
Sonia Gomez has lived in New Mexico for over 20 years. She is graduate of New Mexico Highlands University and worked in education for almost 10 years, including two years teaching English overseas to teens and young adults. In New Mexico she worked in both rural and urban school districts and brings her experience working with youth to the Pre Apprenticeship Program. Currently she provides program services in Albuquerque, Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute, and Rio Rancho.
Talent Acquisition Manager, Arcosa Inc.
Arcosa, Inc. is a provider of infrastructure-related products and solutions with leading brands serving construction, engineered structures, and transportation markets. Our individual businesses have built reputations for quality, service, and operational excellence over decades. Arcosa serves a broad spectrum of infrastructure-related markets and is strategically focused on driving organic and disciplined acquisition growth to capitalize on the fragmented nature of many of the industries in which we operate. With Arcosa’s current platform of businesses and additional growth opportunities, we are well- aligned with key market trends, such as the replacement and growth of aging transportation infrastructure, the continued shift to renewable power generation, and the expansion of new transmission, distribution, and telecommunications infrastructure. Ms. Harvell has earned the Facilitator Certification Process Workshop badge and has demonstrated the competencies required to be an expert facilitator. Shelli was very honored that Arcosa, Inc. was able to host President Joe Biden on site at their new Belen, NM location.
Owner/CEO, EXHIB-IT!
DJ is an expert in Full BRAIN Marketing. Are you ready to learn all the skills to be a great relationship marketer for customer service? Unlike many speakers and consultants, DJ shows you exactly what to say and how to say it, and what to do and how to do it right. Are you well connected? Do you have a competitive edge? DJ’s conversations are interactive and engaging. Look up the word “go-getter” in the dictionary and you might as well see a picture of DJ Heckes, owner of EXHIB-IT! CEO/Owner of EXHIB-IT!, a GSA Certified, woman-owned small business headquartered in Albuquerque, NM since February 2000. EXHIB-IT! Was founded and organized by DJ Heckes, for the express purpose of providing quality products with exhibit marketing and design services to federal agencies and commercial enterprises. She also practices the philosophy: Priorities are What We Do. Everything Else is Just Talk!
HVRP Veteran Case Manager, Goodwill Industries of New Mexico
I have been in Case Management for over 15 years. I have a background in Community Health, Early Childhood education, and received my certification for Community Health work in 2006. I was on the Board for New Mexico Community health workers association and assisted with the training of new health workers. I have been with Goodwill’s HVRP program for 2 years now. Helping clients succeed is my passion. I have been blessed with such an awesome opportunity to give back to our Veteran community. I have always felt my calling was to serve others and give back.
Regional Manager, New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions
Anthony is a Regional Manager with The Department of Workforce Solutions managing employment services managers and staff in the Eastern and Central Regions of the state of New Mexico. Anthony has been with NMDWS for 8 and a half years. During his time with NMDWS Anthony has also served as a Career Consultant in the Trade Adjustment Assistance program, An Area Supervisor and Area Manager in the Central Region.
Disabled Veteran Outreach Program Specialist, New Mexico Workforce Connection
On October 2, 2021 I began my role as a Disabled Veteran Outreach Program Specialist (DVOP) at New Mexico Workforce Connections. Since then, I have achieved significant milestones by enrolling veterans (54) and facilitating their placements in jobs, adult training and certifications programs through various initiatives including WIOA, Veterans Administration VR&E programs, Kirtland Air Force Base TAP Programs. Moreover, I have been successful with the help of the Veterans Integration Center staff in re-designing the Outreach program of which we have seen a marked increase in the veterans participation with the Workforce center by registering, and developing an exit strategy for obtaining their own apartments and other services that have held them back from removing their barriers.
WIOA Administrator, Southwestern Area Workforce Development Board
Glory Juarez is a proud daughter of southern New Mexico. She has been honored to serve the southern part of the state through a 16 year stint with Luna County where she eventually served as interim County Manager. Glory took her passion to serve communities to northern New Mexico where she worked in the City of Albuquerque Mayor’s Office for 3 years. Glory’s desire to return home led to her and her husband, Mario, relocating to Doña Ana County. Glory currently serves as WIOA Administrator for the Southwestern Area Workforce Development Board and in addition to this, she has the honor of serving as the Secretary of the Lower Rio Grande Public Water Works Authority Board. Together, with her husband, they have raised 6 beautiful children and have been blessed with 3 grandchildren.
Blythe is a Manager in Deloitte’s Government and Public Services Human Capital Consulting practice. She is passionate about creating environments for all people to thrive in the future of work. As the Chief Curriculum Officer with the Future of Work Institute™, she designs multiple microcredentials for learners at different periods of their career paths where disruption can happen. She works closely with her higher education and post-secondary education clients to reimagine how to support students as they enter ever-evolving work worlds and design higher education institutions of the future that partner robust academic programming with real time skills development. Outside of her professional life, Blythe is a 200hr eRYT and leads meditation and yoga trainings and retreats around the world. She is fluent in Italian and Spanish and has a working knowledge of German.
ACE Manager, Santa Fe Community College
Kristen Krell received her MA in Educational Leadership from the University of New Mexico. She has spent 25 years at the Santa Fe Community College working to implement educational programs and strategies that aim to open access to college for students who have been traditionally underrepresented in higher education. For the past ten years, Kristen has taken a leadership role in bringing together workforce, adult education, and college leadership to develop and implement Integrated Education Training (IET) programs across the State. Kristen currently works in the Adult Education department at SFCC and represents Adult Education on the Northern Area Local Workforce Development Board. She serves as the IET Director for the Workforce Integration Network (WIN) project.
Director of Programs, New Mexico Chamber of Commerce
Rob Leming serves as the Director of Programs at the New Mexico Chamber of Commerce, heading up the NM Center for Economic Opportunity, the education, charitable, and research 501c3 foundation of the Chamber. Prior to joining the Chamber, Leming specialized in fundraising and communications strategy on political campaigns for some of New Mexico’s star statespeople including Senator Tom Udall, Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland, and many others at the state and local level. More recently, he served as the Lead Government and Community Relations Manager for New Mexico’s largest electric utility, managing relationships with elected officials and community leaders in three of the state’s most populous cities ensuring the continued transition to renewable and sustainable energy and guiding the company’s positive community impact through charitable sponsorships and donations. Leming holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from American University in Washington DC. He has served in executive roles on several non-profit Boards around community advocacy, education, and Autism acceptance. He is completely committed to participating in New Mexico’s growth and empowerment.
Management Analyst, New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions
Tanya Lopez is a dedicated Management Analyst currently serving in the State Apprenticeship Office at the Department of Workforce Solutions (NMDWS). Her unwavering commitment to workforce development, paired with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Early Childhood Multi-Cultural Education, emphasizes her journey in public service. Tanya’s career in public service began to take shape during her tenure at the New Mexico Department of Labor, now recognized as NMDWS. Here, she made contributions in various capacities with the Labor Relations Division, holding positions in both the Wage and Hour and Apprenticeship offices. It was during her time in the Apprenticeship Office that she discovered her true calling, fueling her desire to return to NMDWS and continue her mission within the State Apprenticeship Office. As an advocate for registered apprenticeship programs, Tanya has witnessed the transformative impact of these initiatives, not only professionally but also on a personal level. She firmly believes in the endless opportunities registered apprenticeships offer to the people of New Mexico. In her current role, Tanya assumes the vital responsibilities for program development and compliance, showcasing her expertise and dedication. Tanya’s driving motivation is to assist employers in establishing a high-quality workforce pipeline through Registered Apprenticeship. Her dedication to this cause is evident, and she remains steadfast in her pursuit of creating brighter futures for both employers and aspiring workers alike.
PhD, Co-Founder and CEO, Creative Startups
Alice Loy is widely recognized as a driving force behind the global creative economy movement. In 2013 she built and launched the Creative Startups Accelerator, the world’s first startup accelerator for creative entrepreneurs. Today Creative Startups's suite of programs counts over 650 alumni companies on 4 continents - including 330 in New Mexico. Collectively, these companies have raised more than $250 million in venture financing, generated $300 million in new revenues, and created over 2,500 new jobs. Alice is co-author of the groundbreaking book, Creative Economy Entrepreneurs: From Startup to Success. She holds both a Masters in Business and a PhD in Entrepreneurship from the University of New Mexico.
Field Operations Director, New Mexico Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
Mario Lucero currently serves as the DVR Field Operations Director for the Northeast and North Central regions of New Mexico, based out of the Santa Fe DVR field office. He oversees DVR operations in the Las Vegas, Taos, Santa Fe and Espanola offices. In addition to 20+ years of self-advocacy, Mario has worked with many people with disabilities as a job coach/job developer, day habilitation coordinator for a DD Service provider, and a university disability coordinator. Within DVR, Mario has served as Assistive Technology Coordinator for the NM Technology Assistance Program from 2008 to 2012. From 2012-2017, he worked as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor. From 2017-2020, he was the Program Manager for DVR Area 1, which includes Santa Fe and Espanola. His educational background includes a B.B.A. Degree in Business Management and a master’s degree in vocational rehabilitation counseling. Mario’s passion is helping to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities through a combination of his advocacy, guidance & counseling, and leadership skills. Mario is married to his beautiful bride of 13 years, Stephanie. Together they have two daughters, Hannah, 10 and Savannah, 7.
Education Administrator, New Mexico public Education Department
Ben Lukoski works for the New Mexico Public Education Department in the College and Career Readiness Bureau as an Education Administrator and is the School Counselor Liaison for the state. Ben has ten years of experience as a school counselor, the last six years at Cleveland High School in Rio Rancho, with stints in Bernalillo, Cloudcroft, and Alamogordo. Ben earned his masters degree in counseling from the University of Southern California in Los Angeles where he also served with AmeriCorps City Year program as a corps member in Los Angeles Unified School District. Ben Grew up in Ripon Wisconsin and currently lives in Placitas.
Executive Director, Equality New Mexico
Marshall is an organizer, and has been a political strategist for multiple candidates and organizations; from fighting climate change with the League of Conservation Voters to working for fair pay and safe working conditions with AFSCME-the public employees labor union. All personal fights because, like all of us, he has lived a multi-issue life. Born and raised in Alamogordo, New Mexico, to a working-class family and a group of particularly strong women (and a few great men, too!) in High School he worked to educate young people about safer sex. Marshall’s policy expertise focuses on Gender and Sexuality, Bodily Autonomy, and Reproductive and Sexual Healthcare. Marshall also prides himself on his skillset for navigating attacks against our values, in ways that build power for the communities being attacked rather than just winning the short-term fight. Marshall strongly believes in the African Proverb “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together."
Project Director, Equus Workforce Solutions
Peter Martinez is passionate with helping to change New Mexicans lives. Peter has 7 years experience in workforce development. His current role is Project Director for the WIOA Adult, Dislocated Worker and Youth programs in SW NM. Peter’s prior workforce development experience includes One-Stop Operator for SW NM and Employment Services/TANF Area Manager for the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions. Peter is devoted to educating community members on the great programs provided through New Mexico Workforce Connection, to ensure all New Mexicans have a brighter and better tomorrow.
CEO, Workforce Solutions Borderplex
Leila Melendez is CEO of Workforce Solutions Borderplex, a non-profit partner of the Texas Workforce Commission. WSB serves job seekers in the 6-county region in Far West Texas by working closely with local businesses, education institutions, economic development agencies, and local governments towards improving the skills, wages, and competitiveness of the Borderplex workforce. Ms. Melendez is a product of El Paso, having graduated from Bel Air High School, earning a bachelor’s degree from the University of Phoenix and her MBA from UTEP. She's a proponent of lifelong learning and completed an Executive Education Course at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government in Behavioral Insights. Ms. Melendez volunteers her time with several organizations that promote and serve the community, including the Fireman and Policemen’s Pension Fund Board and Executive Forum. She was recognized as a Gold Nugget Alum by UTEP College of Business, a Woman of Impact by El Paso Inc., and a Breakthrough Leader by the Greater El Paso Chamber of Commerce.
PhD, Training Manager, New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions
My name is Hazel Mella, and I currently work as the Training Manager for the NM Department of Workforce Solutions. I hold a doctoral degree in Education, with a specialization in Leadership in Higher Education. Originally from the Philippines, I now live with my spouse, daughter, son-in-law, and three grand puppies. In my free time, I enjoy reading historical narratives and admiring Japanese houses and Zen gardens.
Deputy Director of Arts and Culture, City of Albuquerque
Elsa Menendez is the Deputy Director of Arts & Culture for the City of Albuquerque. An experienced arts administrator, facilitator, and theatre artist, she has spent the past 20 years working in the public sector, serving on multiple boards and committees, and has a long history of collaborative partnerships with community organizations throughout New Mexico. Prior to her current position, Elsa spent 3 years as Field Representative on the staff of US Senator Martin Heinrich following a 17 year tenure at the National Hispanic Cultural Center where she served as Director of Performing Arts and Director of Education. In addition, Elsa has spent more than 40 years working in theatre around the world as a writer, director, producer and performer. She is a facilitator and teacher of local, national, and international trainings, workshops, symposiums, and retreats including the Albuquerque Community Safety training on bias awareness and the neurobiology of Safety and Threat, Sofia Center’s Wild Leadership Retreat for education leaders, and Cultivating Women’s Leadership through Bioneers. Elsa is a co-founder of the Women Leading Change initiative. She is a certified life coach and member of the Kellogg Foundation-funded Coaches for Equity and Transformation 2020 cohort.
Bureau Chief, Economic Research & Analysis, New Mexico Department of workforce Solutions
Rachel Moskowitz works for the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions in Albuquerque, New Mexico as the chief of the Economic Research and Analysis Bureau. She has a bachelor’s degree in economics from The Ohio State University and a master’s degree in economics from The University of New Mexico. She has previously worked at the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department, and the New Mexico Human Services Department.
Lead Representative, Southwest Mountain States Regional Council of Carpenters
Rosendo Najar was born and raised in Albuquerque, NM, in a small neighborhood called the International District. As a son of Mexican immigrant parents, hard work was instilled in him at a young age. Summer breaks were not for relaxation but more for learning the carpentry trade from uncles and cousins on residential job sites. Growing up in a rough neighborhood in Albuquerque, Rosendo definitely faced many challenges in life which eventually led him to make some bad decisions and ended up serving a two year prison sentence. After his release at the age of 21, he was determined to get back on the right path and not let his family down. He began his own residential framing company and was successful doing so for three years. Through a childhood friend he learned about the carpenters union and was immediately interested in the opportunity. He joined Carpenters Local 1319 as an apprentice in 2007. He journeyed out in 2009 and was a Foreman for a commercial framing company by 2011. From 2011- 2017 he managed numerous multi-million dollar projects throughout the State of New Mexico. In 2017 he was elected as the President of Carpenters Local 1319 where he remains as president to this present day. He was also hired as a Special Representative for the Regional Council that same year. In 2018 he was promoted to Business Manager for the State of New Mexico. In 2019 he was elected to sit on the Executive Board for the Southwest Mountain States Regional Council of Carpenters, which is the largest Regional Council in the UBC overseeing 130,000 members in 12 states. He continues to actively work to educate individuals to what the Carpentry trade has to offer and how much it has helped change the lives of many like him.
Staff Development Trainer, New Mexico Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
Dominique is the Staff Development Trainer with the NM Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. Dominique has worked in the field of employment related human services for 8 years. Her previous experience includes working with the Social Security Administration and also as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor with NMDVR where she was located at the Workforce Connections office in Albuquerque. This provided her the opportunity to build strong relationships with DVR Workforce partners and other various state and community agencies. Dominique previously worked with the Center for Development and Disability at the University of New Mexico as an Education Specialist with Partners for Employment where she provided employment-related trainings to job developers, supported employment agencies, school staff, self-advocates, and VR staff around the state. In her free time, Dominique enjoys traveling, going to concerts, and spending time with family and her dogs.
Vice President for Strategic Development, Global Perspectives Integrated
Joshua Orozco, a Las Cruces native, grew up on a steady diet of Hatch green chile and southern New Mexican cuisine. He holds a bachelor's degree in government and a master's in business administration from New Mexico State University. With a strong commitment to promoting the economic development of New Mexico's border region, Joshua currently holds the position of VP for Strategic Development at Global Perspectives Integrated (GPI), a project management and marketing firm. In his role at GPI, Joshua collaborates with organizations such as the NM Partnership and the NM Small Business Development Center Network to drive industry recruitment to New Mexico and provide essential support to local businesses and entrepreneurs expanding into the global market. Joshua's extensive background includes helping found the Border Industrial Association, a non-profit dedicated to advancing industrial development along the New Mexico-Mexico border. He is also a founding member and vice-president of the Santa Teresa Charitable Foundation, which raises funds for educational programs in southern Doña Ana County. His commitment to workforce development is evident in his current roles as Chair of the New Mexico State Workforce Development Board and Vice-Chair of the Southwestern Area Workforce Development Board, responsible for the allocation of federal resources for workforce development in southwestern NM. Furthermore, Joshua serves on the boards of the Bridge of Southern New Mexico, a nonprofit supporting education and workforce development in Doña Ana County, the Camino Real Regional Utility Authority, a water and wastewater utility, and FirstLight Federal Credit Union.
Executive Director, Northern Area Local Workforce Development Board
Lisa Ortiz is the Executive Director of the Northern Area Local Workforce Development Board “NALWDB” in Santa Fe New Mexico. The Northern board is designated by the local elected officials and charged with administering workforce development services in accordance with the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA) in ten counties. The NALWDB was incorporated in 2001 as a nonprofit 501 (C) (3) to operate as the Administrative Entity (AE) for workforce funds in the ten (10) northern New Mexico Counties: Santa Fe, Rio Arriba, Los Alamos, Taos, Mora, Colfax, San Miguel, McKinley, Cibola and San Juan. Prior to becoming the Executive Director of the Northern Board, Lisa served 26 years in State Government as the Financial Manager for the Attorney General’s Office; served as the Administrative Services Division Director for Economic Development Department & NM Tourism Department and before retiring in 2014 ended her career serving as the Executive Assistant to Commissioner Teresa Becenti-Aguilar with the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission.
Director and Strategist, P-Brain Media
Peri Pakroo (www.peripakroo.com) is a business author and consultant, specializing in creative and smart strategies for self-employment and small business. She is the founder and Director of P-Brain Media (www.pbrainmedia.com), an information technology firm that helps businesses and nonprofits define digital strategy and communicate online. Peri is the author of the top-selling books The Women’s Small Business Start-Up Kit, The Small Business Start-Up Kit(national and California editions), and Starting & Building a Nonprofit,all published by Nolo. She holds a law degree from the University of New Mexico and is active in supporting local, sustainable economicdevelopment.
Unemployment Insurance Deputy Division Director, New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions
Gavin Pantoja is the UI Deputy Director for the Department of Workforce Solutions where he has worked since March 2021. Gavin has over 20+ years of management within the employment services industries of State government, Federal government and the public sectors at a local, statewide and national level. Prior to joining the Department of Workforce Solutions, he was working for CWS which was specifically designed to assist those on TANF through the Human Services Department. The goal of CWS/HSD was to get those on TANF into self-sufficiency jobs for a better living environment to not only benefit their children but themselves. He really enjoyed working within that program as he saw first hand how he and a team could make a make a difference in the lives of so many. As the vision of the UI (Unemployment Insurance) division is changing to a “new” direction, Gavin has welcomed the opportunity with so many others in the department to make a change that is not only great for the team but for all of New Mexicans. Gavin is very proud of being a part of this DWS team and all partners that are making New Mexico an even better place each year.
Mayor, Sunland Park
Mayor Javier Perea has proven that it takes more than just years of experience to be able to lead a community with honesty and integrity. During his term as a public official and at his young age, he has left an important mark as mayor of his hometown, bringing important changes that have greatly impacted the community and residents’ lives. Only two years after graduating from New Mexico State University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, Mayor Perea was appointed as mayor of Sunland Park, New Mexico, at the age of twenty-four. Leading the community after a decadent phase plagued with bad publicity and budget deficits. Mayor Perea worked diligently to rebuild the community on many fronts, including trust and reputation. During his tenure, Mayor Perea successfully turned the City around to one that is now recognized as one of the safest and fastest-growing cities in the State of New Mexico. He has secured millions in funding for infrastructure and public safety, improved failing infrastructure, and ISO fire safety ratings. The City was also recognized in 2017 for having improved financial practices. Unsurprisingly, with this kind of leadership, Mayor Perea has served on several boards and in leadership positions, including the El Paso Metropolitan Planning Organization, South Central Regional Transit District, Mesilla Valley Regional Dispatch Authority, New Mexico Municipal League, and others. Mayor Perea continues to address the City’s many challenges and remains focused on economic development, infrastructure, and improving the quality of life in Sunland Park. Running unopposed for a fourth term, his focus includes the development of an entertainment corridor, a new port of entry with Mexico, and the development of sports tourism in his community.
Owner, Poston & Associates, LLC
Steph Poston is a Native American who owns a full-service communications firm, specializing in communication services for Native American entities. She was instrumental in our outreach efforts to the Native American/Alaskan Natives during the pandemic, and with the 988 statewide initiative. Her service to NM’s NA communities are extraordinary. She works closely with many NA influencers like Ricardo Cate (renowned cartoonist), Native Youth, and the IHS.
MS, Director of State Partnerships, ACT
Rachel is a native of Virginia joins ACT as a Director of State Partnerships. Rachel holds a Bachelor's degree in English Literature from Virginia Commonwealth University and a Master's in Higher Education from Drexel University. She has spent almost 20 years working in education and a decade working in K-12 and adult education assessments, workforce, and CTE. She is passionate about access to education, working with first-generation students, and presenting and training educators nationally.
Financial Aid Manager, New Mexico Higher Education Department
Heather Romero, Financial Aid Manager at the New Mexico Higher Education Department has over 20 years of higher education and financial aid experience in serving New Mexico Higher Education institutions and students. She was born and raised in New Mexico and understands New Mexico’s diverse population. She works with local organizations to provide strategic policies that surround New Mexico student financial aid. She has a continued commitment and understanding to advise students on their educational journey and financial aid options available to New Mexicans.
Employment Services Programs Division Director, New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions
Waldy C. Salazar has worked in Workforce Development for over 25 years. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration and project management. Currently serving as Division Director for the Employment Services Programs Division. Waldy oversees the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), TANF New Mexico Works, State Apprenticeship, and several other federal and state employment programs. Waldy also serves as a board member for the Central New Mexico Workforce Board. His focus is on strengthening relationships with workforce boards, educational institutions, economic development, and community, and businesses partners throughout the State of New Mexico.
Owner/CEO, Siarza,Volunteer Executive Director, Asian Business Collaborative
Kristelle Siarza Moon is a business executive, non-profit founder, and entrepreneur with extensive experience in digital communications and leadership. She is the owner/CEO of Siarza, a public relations and marketing firm that focuses on innovation, curation, and creativity. The company has a global team of over 20 members. Kristelle has also provided consulting services for organizations in various industries, helping them with digital marketing and communications strategies. She is particularly passionate about supporting Asian business owners and founded the Asian Business Collaborative to provide advocacy and support to this underrepresented group. Kristelle is actively involved in her community, serving on economic development task forces and as a board member for several organizations. She has received awards for her accomplishments and is also involved in recreational activities such as golf, hot air ballooning and kickball.
President, FutureWork Systems
Geoff Smith is the President of FutureWork Systems, bringing over 20 years of experience implementing self-service cloud business intelligence solutions to the public workforce system at the federal, state, and local levels. Passionate about the use of business intelligence to support program and policy decisions and continuous improvement initiatives, Geoff believes in the power of democratizing data and empowering organizations to turn data into insight and action. He has witnessed the exciting, positive changes business intelligence applications have on the public workforce system.
Director, Laguna Department of Education
Petra L. Solimon, is the Director of the Pueblo of Laguna’s, Partners for Success Program which is a PL 102-477 Employment and Training Program. Ms. Solimon is also is the Director of the Laguna-Acoma Connections program which is vocational rehabilitation program for people with disabilities. This program supports the Pueblo of Laguna and Pueblo of Acoma. Ms. Solimon has been working in the Native American Workforce Programs for over 20 years. Ms. Solimon has her Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Barry University, Miami Florida.
Labor Relations Division Director, New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions
Kimberly Souders is the Labor Relations Division Director for the Department of Workforce Solutions (DWS) where she has worked since January 2021. Kimberly has over 23 years of progressive Human Resources (HR) experience in private and public sectors throughout the State of New Mexico. She is certified as a Senior HR Professional by the National HR Certification Institute, and a Senior Certified Professional by the Society of HR Management. She is also a certified mediator with emphasis in workplace interventions. In her current role, she is responsible for the administration and enforcement of New Mexico’s civil rights and wage and hour laws which include: minimum wage, prevailing wage for public works projects, overtime, recordkeeping, child labor compliance, anti-retaliation and anti-discrimination, and the Healthy Workplaces Act (the new state-wide paid sick leave law). Prior to her current role with DWS, Kimberly was the HR Director for a regulatory agency with the State of New Mexico, a Director of Labor and Employee Relations for the New Mexico Department of Health, and has held other senior/executive professional roles in former organizations. Having vast experience in all bodies of knowledge in HR Management (to include workforce planning and employment, organizational development, compensation and benefits, and risk management programs), her expertise lies in the area of labor and employee relations.
Executive Director, The National Association of Social Workers – New Mexico Chapter
Mika Tari is the Executive Director for The National Association of Social Workers-New Mexico Chapter (NASW-NM). She is going into her fourth year there. NASW-NM has awakened a policy and advocate nerd that apparently lay unrealized and dormant. She earned her master’s in social work f from NMSU and has lived in NM for more than 25 years. Her experience includes decades of work with non-profit agencies. These span areas include group homes and ICF/MRs for those with IDD and on the autism spectrum, supported employment, peer support, older adults, health and dementia care, early childhood, and substitute teaching. As you can see it was a career where the work and at held being non-profit very seriously. Around 2008 she changed career paths and began working within state government. Mika worked for the NM Human Services Department (HSD), five years in the Medical Assistance Division, and five years with the Behavioral Health Services Division (BHSD). Her last position there was as the Interim Director. Mika describes social work as a responsibility for social justice, equality, and finding a better human experience. She is grateful to do what she does because it frames the importance of the “dignity and worth of all” and “unconditional positive regard”.
Unemployment Insurance Division Director, New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions
Lynne Throop has more than 25 years’ experience in program management, process improvement, training, and leadership development. She holds a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work; experience in behavior management and conflict resolution issues. She has experience in spearheading organizational change and customer-centered improvements in a variety of settings. Her Program Management experience has been in a variety of industries including telecommunications, government, and social services.
Director of Sales and Marketing, Geographic Solutions
Deane Toler has over 23 years of experience promoting, developing, and delivering new technologies within service industries. In his current role, Deane is responsible for business development, strategic partnerships, and leading the Marketing and Sales Teams. In addition, he serves as the development and implementation liaison of workforce development systems in the western region and directs all marketing initiatives.
One-Stop Operator, Northern Area Local Workforce Development Board
Ericka Van Eckhoutte is the One-Stop Operator for the Northern Area Local Workforce Development Board. In this role, Ericka oversees the collaborations of partners and resources within the Northern 10 Counties. These partners include staff housed within the 8 New Mexico Workforce Connection Centers, secondary and post-secondary institutions, local businesses and chambers, and other community-based organizations. With more than 7 years in workforce development, Ericka is passionate about bridging the gap between our businesses, educators, and job-seekers, to train and retain the next generation of workforce.
D. Min., Ordained Pastor, Evangelical Lutheran Church
The Rev. Christa von Zychlin, D. Min., is an ordained pastor of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and currently serves at St. Luke Lutheran Church, Albuquerque, NM. Rev. Dr. von Zychlin has lived in five countries on four continents for fifteen years of her professional life. Previous positions include lecturer in the Central African Republic, Coordinator of the Mekong Mission Forum (MMF) in conjunction with the Lutheran World Federation, and Coordinator of International Students at a seminary in Hong Kong. She has served as workshop leader and author of dozens of popular articles in the area of women, spirituality and the Bible. Her Doctorate of Ministry (D.Min.) research project involved listening to women leaders in conversation with female voices of the Bible, as a means for empowering diaconal reflection and action in marginalized communities.
President/CEO, Tresco, Inc.
Sylvia Washington is the President and CEO of Tresco, Inc. She has been closely involved in planning, training, mentorship, recruitment, and support of all of Tresco’s employees, leaders, and programs! Sylvia has been with Tresco since 2006 beginning as a Family Service Coordinator for families served by TOTS Early Intervention Program in Anthony, NM. Sylvia has her bachelor's and master's degree in Education and has taken master level, Public Administration course work from New Mexico State University. In addition to her work at Tresco she is a member of SHRM, and The Association, Las Cruces has served as a March of Dimes Board Member, Parents As Teachers advisory committee member, Southwestern Area Workforce Development Board member, on the Big Brothers Big Sisters Mountain Region Board of Directors, and is a Greater Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Las Cruces graduate, class of 2020, “longest class ever”. Her professional experience includes over 20 years of non-profit management and 4 years of preschool education. Before devoting her work to Tresco, Sylvia has worked at the YMCA, Boys and Girls Club, and Childcare programs. Positions ranging from lifeguard, after-school teacher, preschool teacher, field supervisor, case manager, site supervisor, and Director. Sylvia was born and raised in El Paso, TX but moved to Las Cruces, NM after high school to attend New Mexico State University in 1998. Go Aggies! She has a 16-year-old daughter that is a Junior at Centennial High School. Go Hawks! So, when not working, or in the community, lol, she is keeping up with her daughter's activities!
Pre-Apprenticeship Program Coordinator, New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions
Senior consultant, Deloitte
Nathan is a Senior Consultant for Deloitte’s Government and Public Services Human Capital Consulting practice where he specializes in workforce development and digital transformation projects with Deloitte's state government and higher education clients. Nathan contributes to Deloitte’s research on workforce development and the Future of Work and is a certified Future of Work Institute™ facilitator. Prior to Deloitte, Nathan worked for a Fortune 500 consumer goods company. He received his MBA from the University of Arkansas, his Master of Public Service from the Clinton School of Public Service, and his BA in Journalism from the University of Arkansas. Nathan serves on the board of the Fayetteville Public Education Foundation and is passionate about public education and economic mobility.
Resource Counselor, Albuquerque Public Schools
Rebekah Weems has served as an Elementary, Middle, and High School Counselor throughout the scope of her 18 years of experience in public education. She currently serves as a Resource Counselor in the Student, Family & Community Supports Division with the Albuquerque Public Schools District. She holds a certification as a Trauma Support Specialist through the Arizona Trauma Institute. Rebekah is a member of the New Mexico School Counselor Association (NMSCA) and as an active member of the American School Counselor Association (ASCA), she holds certifications as an Anxiety & Stress Specialist, Grief & Loss Specialist, Diversity, and Bully Prevention Specialist. She volunteers as a trained member of the DSMART team to assist schools responding to critical incidents. Rebekah earned a Master of Arts in School Counseling at Webster University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a Minor in Communication & Journalism at the University of New Mexico.
HVRP Case Manager, Goodwill Industries of New Mexico
As a dedicated Workforce Reintegration Specialist, I am passionately committed to the mission of the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program (HVRP), which focuses on two fundamental objectives: reintegrating homeless veterans into meaningful employment and fostering the development of robust service delivery systems tailored to the complex needs of these honorable individuals. My career journey has led me to specialize in the multifaceted realm of veteran reintegration, where I have gained a profound understanding of the unique needs and challenges faced by homeless veterans. With an unwavering commitment to serving this deserving population, I have honed my skills and expertise in providing comprehensive services that empower veterans to find their footing in the labor force.
Business Manager, Financial Secretary Treasurer of the Sheet Metal Workers Local Union 49
Isaiah Zemke was born in Albuquerque and raised in Tome New Mexico. He started out at a young age being taught about construction because of his father being a carpenter and machinist. He was top of his class in Construction Technology I, II and III vocational education and later graduated from Belen High School in 2001. After High School he worked as an open shop employee in the sheet metal industry for various contractors and had a short stent with the ABC apprenticeship. In 2006 he became an apprentice at the Sheet Metal Workers Local 49 apprenticeship program. He spent the next four years learning how to become a highly skilled and trained journeyman. After completion of apprenticeship, he managed several high-profile projects in Los Alamos National Laboratories, and Intel. In 2014 he was appointed to the union as an organizer. In 2015 he became the local union’s lobbyist. In 2019 he was elected as Business Representative and is now currently the Business Manager and Financial Secretary Treasurer of the Sheet Metal Workers Local Union 49. Isaiah strongly believes in helping New Mexicans create a better future for themselves and their families through his union. “If you give a person a job you feed them for a week. If you teach a person a skill you feed them for a lifetime” Isaiah Zemke
Coordinator, Unearthing Future Opportunities (U.F.O) Program
Krystine Zuest is the Coordinator for the Unearthing Future Opportunity Program (WIOA Title 1 Youth Program) in Eastern New Mexico. She and her team have dedicated themselves to breaking down barriers and providing opportunities for the youth in New Mexico. Her advocacy and innovative approach ensure that these young adults have access to education, vocational training, and the resources necessary to succeed in today's evolving job market. Krystine is also a proud Air Force Veteran. Her military background has instilled in her a deep sense of duty and leadership. Her commitment to empowering young adults is fueled by her understanding of the unique challenges they face as they transition into adulthood. In her free time, Krystine enjoys crocheting, baking, and spending time with her wonderful family.