STAFF BIO - Beth Perine

Beth Perine, Employment Advisor, joined Job Connection Center (JCC) in June 2007, eager and enthusiastic about assisting students and graduates. She watches for new and innovative methods for expanding the utilization of JCC services and encourages individuals to continue to grow academically and personally. “It’s never too late to get an education,” she says. “It took me a long time to get my degree—going to school and working, sometimes part-time and sometimes full-time—but I never lost sight of my goal.”

Beth’s path toward higher education began at CNM (TVI at that time) in the late 1980s, with coursework in the Arts and Sciences Department. She then transferred to the University of New Mexico, where she earned a BA in Psychology and Art History. Yet Beth sees this as a stepping-stone; her ultimate, long-term goal is to earn an MA in Counseling from New Mexico Highlands University.

Prior to JCC, Beth worked for the NM Department of Labor as Supervisor for the Workforce Investment Act (WIA), where she assisted low-income and laid-off populations in obtaining employment. She helped educate and inform people of resources available for overcoming barriers, and she spoke with employers to determine their employment needs. Beth conducted assessments, recommended workshops designed to enhance marketability, and enjoyed helping individuals with résumés and job searches. 

She also helped students obtain financial aid assistance for tuition and was particularly impressed by CNM. Along with the helpful, friendly staff members, Beth observed that CNM’s graduates were finding employment quickly in the community. She was attracted to CNM because of the quality education, reasonable tuition, and transferable coursework. 

Beth appreciates the opportunity to help students and graduates in a learning environment. “The positive atmosphere here is contagious,” she explains.  “When somebody finds employment, it always reminds me why I’m doing what I’m doing.”

Off-duty Beth enjoys spending time with her husband and young son, Evan, going to the park, visiting museums, and attending cultural events. “Life is about learning,” says Beth, and she seeks every available avenue to continuing to learn and share what she has learned to benefit the lives of others.