New Mexico celebrates National Apprenticeship Week

Changing demands in the state’s economy are met with apprenticeship programs, according to Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham. That’s why she proclaimed last week National Apprenticeship Week, joining in on celebrations nationwide for the 10th anniversary of the weeklong recognition of apprenticeships.

“The advancement and wellbeing of New Mexico depends upon its ability to expand opportunities in its workforce that are inclusive of individuals who have been historically underserved, marginalized and adversely affected by persistent poverty and inequity in their chosen fields,” the governor said in her proclamation.

This year’s National Apprenticeship Week theme was “Celebrating 10 Years of Engagement, Expansion and Innovation.”

Since the U.S. Department of Labor launched National Apprenticeship Week a decade ago, more than 1.4 million people around the nation have participated in the week’s events.

The New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions hosted its own events last week, including workshops on how employers can start registered apprenticeship programs and a career fair.

NMDWS Secretary Sarita Nair said in a statement the state’s elected officials have enabled “tremendous progress in expanding apprenticeship opportunities over the past two years.”

Most recently, the 2024 Legislature passed a Workforce Development and Apprenticeship Trust Fund, a way for the state to channel money to apprenticeship and training programs. The fund started with a $30 million appropriation, and its spending policy is $5 million for the first two years and $3 million annually after that.

“Through partnerships with the construction and clean energy industries, we’re not only creating pathways to high-quality, sustainable careers, but also launching new apprenticeship programs to support young people and underrepresented populations to enter those fields,” Nair said.

There are 62 registered apprenticeship and career pathway programs in New Mexico. The programs cover a variety of fields, like trades, education, health care and technology. There are 2,585 apprentices participating in the programs, according to NMDWS.

A full list of the apprenticeship programs, including qualifications and salary information, can be found online at www.dws.state.nm.us/apprenticeship.