A workforce development partnership between the city of Albuquerque and Central New Mexico Community College has enrolled more than 3,400 workers and created 1,510 new jobs while adding nearly $75 million in earning power for local employees.
Job Training Albuquerque, launched in 2020, has enrolled 3,433 workers from 374 Albuquerque-based small businesses as of July 31, according to city officials. The program has generated $74.8 million in added earning power for participants.
Employees who completed the training programs saw an average wage increase of 24.76%, according to the city. The program serves businesses across technology, healthcare, hospitality and construction sectors.
“Job Training Albuquerque is proving that when we invest in our people, we strengthen our entire economy,” Mayor Tim Keller said in a statement. “Every new job, every wage increase, and every small business success story shows the power of this program.”
The program supports diverse business ownership, with 37% of participating businesses being female-owned, 34% minority-owned and nearly 7% LGBTQ-owned, city officials said.
In July alone, the program enrolled 139 workers from 50 small businesses, including eight new businesses. Three Sisters Kitchen joined as a new training provider, adding food and hospitality programs.
The initiative is expanding into emerging technology sectors with a new quantum technology training program. CNM Ingenuity will launch a Quantum Technician Bootcamp this fall — a 10-week program that requires no college degree or prior technical background.
The quantum program targets entry-level positions with average salaries ranging from $80,000 to $90,000, according to CNM President Tracy Hartzler.
“This 10-week program is going to provide veterans, career changers, and small business employees with opportunities to secure high-paying careers in the fast-emerging field of quantum technology,” Hartzler said.
Economic Development Director Max Gruner said the program’s expansion demonstrates its adaptability to community needs while positioning Albuquerque for success in emerging industries.
“This is how we grow Albuquerque’s economy, by making training inclusive, practical, and forward-looking,” Gruner said.
The free training programs help businesses navigate workforce challenges, increase productivity and create career pathways for workers, officials said.
More information about enrollment in upcoming training courses is available at jobtrainingabq.org.