The Department’s Pre-apprenticeship Opportunity Program (POP) has proved to be a highly effective work-based learning initiative, and a key recruitment resource for businesses. The Department will invest in pre-apprenticeship expansion through programs in microgrid development, homebuilding, green and outdoor careers, and water system operations. Partnerships for this expansion include Kit Carson Electrical Cooperative, the Semilla Project, Local 412 Plumbers and Pipefitters, and the New Mexico Rural Water Association. These expansions pair well with our federally funded
infrastructure and climate-ready pre-apprenticeship expansion grants in construction, semiconductor technology, broadband
infrastructure and
energy auditing to
NewSpace Nexus, Northern New Mexico College, Associated General Contractors of New Mexico, Associated Builders and Contractors Inc. NM Chapter,
Santa Fe Community College and STEM Boomerang LLC.