A new state workforce training initiative exceeded expectations in its first year, with more than 6,200 New Mexicans completing career-focused programs in health care, transportation, construction and other high-demand fields.
The Government Results and Opportunity Trust (GRO) program achieved a 94 percent completion rate across 224 distinct workforce training programs at 19 higher education institutions statewide, backed by a $20 million investment in Fiscal Year 2025. The 6,249 enrolled students pursued training in pharmacy technology, welding, HVAC, plumbing, commercial driving, phlebotomy, and other skilled trades.
Central New Mexico Community College trained the most students with 2,121 enrolled, followed by San Juan College with 643. The average age of participating students was 35, signaling strong interest among working-age adults seeking career advancement or transition opportunities.
“These results make it clear that New Mexicans are eager for flexible, accessible pathways to high-demand careers and these efforts are meeting their needs,” said Higher Education Secretary Stephanie M. Rodriguez. “Higher education is a key ingredient in broadening New Mexico’s economy, and consistent year-over-year enrollment increases indicate that more New Mexicans are responding to our efforts to expand these opportunities.”
The GRO program was established in 2023 by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham and the New Mexico Legislature to support workforce training throughout the state. The three-year, $60 million initiative supports training and apprenticeship programs at universities, branch community colleges and independent community colleges throughout New Mexico.
To qualify for GRO funding, programs must target at least one of the nearly two-dozen high-need workforce areas identified jointly by the New Mexico Higher Education Department and the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions.
The second $20 million installment has already been disbursed for Fiscal Year 2026 programs, which are currently underway. The final $20 million will support expanded programming in Fiscal Year 2027, with goals of increasing access and further aligning programs with workforce needs and local communities.
To view the full FY25 Workforce GRO Report, visit our website. For more information about the New Mexico Higher Education Department and its programs, visit hed.nm.gov.