Day 1 Youth Track

Future Ready: Innovative Approaches to Work-Based Learning

This breakout session will explore innovative strategies and models that are reshaping work-based learning programs to meet the needs of both employers and youth.

Atieno Ouma, Future Focus Education
Mike May, Future Focus Education
Joan Baker, Outreach Director, Local 412 Outreach & Education Foundation

Inspire and Motivate Through Data: Resources for Youth

(10:00 – 10:45am)

Come find out the resources available that help young adults explore their career options, get some training, and land a job. We will go over the Why I Work and Career Solutions tools and review what occupations will be in demand in the future.

Rachel Moskowitz, Bureau Chief, New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions

Empowering Youth: Diverse Routes to Career Success

(1:00 – 1:45pm)

This breakout session will showcase a variety of programs and initiatives that provide young people with opportunities to gain valuable skills and experience through job shadowing, pre-apprenticeships, internships, volunteerism, and work-based learning.

Cristy Wade, Pre-Apprenticeship Program Coordinator, New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions
Luis Villa, Program Coordinator, New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions
Drora Schub, Explora
Sarah Holtzclaw, Coordinator, Northern New Mexico Coalition for Work-based Learning
April Yazza, Program Officer, Serve New Mexico Commission

Partnering with Community Schools

(2:00 – 2:45pm)

This breakout session offers an introduction to the community school model and how community partners can effectively collaborate within it.

Jake Mirabal, Department of Community School Innovation and Strategic Partnerships
Deanna Creighton Cook, Department of Community School Innovation and Strategic Partnerships
Silvina Tello, ABC

Inclusive Futures: Supporting Youth with Disabilities in Workforce Development

(3:00 – 3:45pm)

This breakout session will focus on the unique challenges and opportunities involved in supporting youth with disabilities as they transition into the workforce. 

Dr. Margaret Cage, State Director, Office of Special Education, Public Education Department
Antoinette Holmes, Field Operation Director, New Mexico Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
Melissa McCue, Mandy's Farm
Sophie Trusty, Mandy's Farm
Lisa McNiven, Governor's Commission on Disability
Jessica Dinsmore, Educational Administrator, Office of Special Education, Public Education Department