State of New Mexico Launches Ready NM Workforce & Education Initiative
Website and helpline will connect New Mexicans to jobs, training, and more
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
HED Contact: Stephanie J. Montoya
Public Information Officer
Stephanie.J.Montoya@state.nm.us
(505) 467-9605
DWS Contact: Stacy Johnston
Acting Public Information Officer
Stacy.Johnston@state.nm.us
(505) 259-3926
June 30, 2021
State of New Mexico Launches Ready NM Workforce & Education Initiative
Website and helpline will connect New Mexicans to jobs, training, and more
SANTA FE, NM – New Mexicans have a new tool at their fingertips to connect to jobs and career education with Ready NM, a comprehensive website and helpline designed to increase access to gainful employment opportunities in the state.
The Department of Workforce Solutions, New Mexico Workforce Connection, and Higher Education Department have joined forces to link career education and training programs with high-demand industries and current job openings.
“The purpose is really to uplift New Mexicans and our communities to earn better wages, access rewarding careers, and raise awareness about the many free resources available to them,” Higher Education Secretary Stephanie Rodriguez said. “This is a step toward ensuring that New Mexico is ready to face the challenges and opportunities of today and tomorrow.”
“For some, the pandemic will call for a change in career pathways, Ready NM aims to connect the dots between job seekers, training providers, and available work opportunities,” Workforce Solutions Acting Secretary Ricky Serna said. “Not only does this project centralize vital resources, it expands access to these services to all New Mexicans in communities across the state.”
Ready.NM.gov allows New Mexicans to explore current job openings, learn about high-demand career fields, find career training and education programs near them, and access information about other resources such as scholarships and grants, childcare, and adult education services. Representatives are also available by phone at 800-303-3599, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., to assist with employment, training, and education goals.
There are currently more than 64,500 job openings throughout the state, many of which are in the high-demand industries of healthcare, information technology, education, construction, and STEM fields. New Mexico community colleges, universities, and career training centers offer more than 500 training, certificate, and degree programs in specialized fields. The Department of Workforce solutions also offers 46 apprenticeship programs that allow job seekers to earn money while learning a trade.
There is over $194 million in state scholarships and grants available to New Mexicans for the upcoming school year, with millions more in federal aid available. Prospective students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA) to access both state and federal funds.
The Ready NM website also includes resources for employers and businesses, including information on hiring incentives and assistance, starting a new apprenticeship program, and becoming COVID-safe certified.
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