CNM Celebrates PNM’s Commitment to Future of New Mexico’s Workforce

October 17, 2013 -- PNM and CNM celebrated the dedication of the PNM Sustainable Technology Lab at the CNM Workforce Training Center on Wednesday, Oct. 16.
July 16, 2015

Formerly the Sustainable Technology Lab, the facility was renamed to honor PNM’s investment in CNM’s efforts to train the workforce of tomorrow in the sustainable energy fields. A crowd of about 80 attended the event.

The lab space houses CNM’s (Photovoltaic (solar panel) Installation program and courses on the installation of solar thermal (water heating) systems. The lab is also home to various energy courses and Weatherization Technician training.

“PNM and CNM share a commitment to making our community a better place to provide educational opportunities that help grow a skilled and viable workforce and to encouraging innovation that can change the world,” said Pat Vincent-Collawn, PNM chairman, president and CEO. “We are proud to support the PNM Sustainable Technology Lab.”

CNM President Katharine Winograd expressed her pleasure at PNM’s commitment to CNM. “We are thrilled that PNM is investing in CNM and helping us to improve the quality of our workforce in the sustainable energy fields, which will help strengthen the prospects for our economy, for quality job opportunities in the region and for the sustainability of our environment,” she said.

On hand at the event were several CNM students who have received PNM Renewable Technology Success Awards, which provide financial support for students nearing graduation in a renewable technology program as they prepare to transition into the workforce. PNM established the award in 2009. Twenty-five students have benefited from the funds so far.

Also during the evening, 57 recipients of the 2013 PNM Reduce Your Use grants were awarded grants of up to $5,000 to help reduce their energy use. A total of $250,000 was handed out.