How CNM’s Workforce Development Focus is Fueling Economic Impact and Student Success
Thanks to new funding from the state, CNM has been able to significantly increase the number of students who receive workforce training and go through paid internships
Working closely with employers, industry leaders, and community partners, CNM has always been committed to developing training pathways that align directly with workforce needs, helping businesses find talent while preparing students for high-demand careers.
Over the past two years, these initiatives have grown significantly thanks to strategic investments from the New Mexico Government Results and Opportunity (GRO) program. During the first two years of the pilot program, CNM received $13.6 million—34% of the $60 million statewide total—along with an additional $5 million in supplemental work-study funding.
Overall, more than 6,000 students have participated in GRO-funded workforce training opportunities across New Mexico, ensuring there’s a strong skilled workforce to support new and growing companies across the state.
"CNM understands the needs of business and works at the speed of business,” said Matt Pahl, External Affairs Lead for Pacific Fusion, a clean energy company that’s hosted several workforce students and is currently building a billion-dollar research and manufacturing campus in Albuquerque. “Our work together has shown CNM's expertise in creating programs that benefit not only our talent pipeline but also the larger Central New Mexico economy,”
GRO funding has also supported more than 600 paid internships for current CNM students, allowing them to get essential hands-on experience while simultaneously supporting local companies and non-profits.
"My internship with the Animal Welfare Department has truly helped prepare me for my career journey by allowing me to really find my purpose in confirming this is what I really want to continue to do with my life,” said Giselle Trejo. “I got to work alongside others who were great mentors and who believed in me."
Together, these experiences are translating into sustained workforce outcomes. Early data shows that more than 60% of graduating students who participated in workforce training and internship programs report hourly wages between $20 and $24.99 per hour, while half report annual earnings between $60,000 and $69,999.
CNM is also building on this momentum through a separate $6 million technician training initiative funded directly by the New Mexico Legislature. Focused on quantum technologies, advanced energy, and defense-related industries, the initiative positions CNM as the statewide coordinating lead for technician education and training.
Working alongside other community colleges, employers, workforce partners, national laboratories, and economic development organizations, CNM will help develop dedicated technician pathways, expand work-based learning opportunities, and create industry-recognized credentials aligned with New Mexico's fastest-growing sectors. The initiative further strengthens CNM's role in supporting New Mexico's rapidly growing Technician Economy while ensuring employers have access to the talent needed to innovate and grow.
Together, all these investments represent a coordinated approach to workforce development—one that strengthens employers, supports communities, and creates opportunities for students. Through strategic partnerships and legislative investment, CNM is helping train the talent that will power New Mexico's economy for years to come.