CNM to Host Fifth-Annual Women in Trades Summit on March 21

CNM's fifth-annual New Mexico Women in Trades Summit will take place March 21 with an exciting lineup of industry experts, hands-on demonstrations, and family-friendly activities. Students, staff, faculty, and community members are all invited to join the event to learn more about the many different career pathways for women in the trades. The event will take place on CNM’s Main Campus in the TTC Building, 941 Buena Vista Dr. SE, from 1-4 p.m.

“We want the women in our community and event attendees to walk away with a better understanding of what skilled trade careers actually look like, the scope of employment opportunities available, and how CNM can help you get there,” said Joy Forehand, CNM’s Vice President of Workforce and Community Success.

The summit has grown considerably since it first launched in 2022 and has expanded to cover fields as varied as industrial automation, HVAC, plumbing, and culinary arts.

CNM Financial Aid and Recruitment staff will be on site to answer questions and help attendees explore potential resources for financial assistance. CNM faculty will also be leading lab tours across Main Campus.

New to this year’s event is an expanded emphasis on community participation. Community organizations will be present to share information and resources on supportive services, including childcare and transportation, and Explora will be at the event with interactive experiences for children. Food and refreshments will be provided for all attendees.

"We really wanted to make the event accessible," Joy says. "Whether you're a woman exploring a new career path, an employer looking to connect with future graduates, or a parent bringing your kids, there's something here for everyone."

This year's keynote speaker is Linda Alvarado, the CEO of Alvarado Construction, a National Women's Hall of Famer, and the first Hispanic person to own a Major League Baseball franchise (Colorado Rockies). Alvarado is originally from New Mexico and has a wealth of experience across business, civic leadership, and advocacy for women and other underrepresented communities in nontraditional careers.

"We're so excited to have Linda back," says Joy. "Her perspective, her experience, and what she represents — it's exactly the kind of inspiration this event is built around."

The summit is open to the public and free to attend. CNM community partners, employer tables, and resource booths will be available throughout the afternoon for networking and career exploration.

The New Mexico Women in Trades Summit is a collaboration between CNM, the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions, MCA/SMACNA New Mexico, and the KWH Law Center for Social Justice + Change.

Interested in attending the Women in Trades Summit? RSVP for free here!