“PNM Invests $1 Million to Build Electrical Workforce Through High School Program”
New Mexico is tackling its workforce shortage in skilled trades like electricians as the state continues to recover from the pandemic. To address this issue, a new program aims to guide high school students into the electrical trade and help build a stronger workforce.
PNM has pledged $1 million to the PNM Power Pros program, partnering with three high schools: ACE Leadership High School in Albuquerque, Silver City Consolidated Schools in Silver City, and Tularosa High School in Tularosa. Additionally, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 611 is collaborating to create a curriculum that offers hands-on training for students interested in becoming electrical utility trade workers.
PNM plans to expand this program to more schools in the next academic year.
Lieutenant Governor Howie Morales highlighted the rising demands on the electrical industry, particularly with new projects focused on modernizing the grid to accommodate electric vehicles and solar power.
PNM spokesperson Kelly Huber emphasized the program’s mission to ignite students’ interest and provide them with a pathway to a meaningful career. “We see a very clear link between education and economic development. We’re focused on equipping our students, the next generation, with valuable skills in trade programs that will help them thrive,” Huber stated.
The 15-week program will enable students to earn their OSHA 10 certificate, emphasizing safety, and gain career and technical education credits. After completing the program, they can further their training through apprenticeship programs.
Research from Fordham University indicates that students who have more exposure to career technical education are more likely to graduate, pursue a two-year college degree, and earn higher wages in the future.
