State recognizes apprenticeship week
The state of New Mexico is recognizing National Apprenticeship Week by highlighting the different types of careers that are available after completing an apprenticeship program.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham issued a proclamation recognizing the career pathway from Nov. 17-23.
“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,” NMDWS Cabinet Secretary Sarita Nair said in a news release.
Apprenticeship programs are essentially paid jobs where the employee learns a skill or trade under the watch of another person, such as a carpenter.
Apprenticeship positions are becoming increasingly popular in a growing number of fields, according to NMDWS.
There are a number of apprenticeship programs in New Mexico, including programs through Hobbs Municipal Schools and Central New Mexico Community College.
There are more than 58 registered apprenticeship programs throughout the state, and earlier this year, NMDWS announced a nearly $6 million, three-year federal award to assist the programs.
The average wage after completing a Registered Apprenticeship Program is $80,000 per year, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
“Investing in apprenticeships is not just an investment in skills, but a powerful pathway out of poverty,” said UA Local 412 Director of Outreach & Engagement Joan Baker.