Corrections Department launches electrical vocational program
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Contact: Brittany Roembach
Public Information Officer, Corrections Department
Brittany.roembach@cd.nm.gov
505-382-3541
October 14, 2025
Corrections Department launches electrical vocational program
Program offered in partnership with Northern NM College and Higher Education Department
SANTA FE – Inmates at the Penitentiary of New Mexico can now earn electrical theory certificates through a new training program launched by the New Mexico Corrections Department (NMCD) in a new partnership with Northern New Mexico College.
The course covers the basics of electrical work and lays the groundwork for inmates to pursue advanced certification, or an associate’s degree, in the field.
“We’re excited to offer another vocational training program that creates a pathway to stable, high-demand, and well-paying careers after release,” said NMCD Cabinet Secretary Alisha Tafoya Lucero . “We are deeply grateful to our community and agency partners, including Northern New Mexico College and the Higher Education Department, for helping to make programs like this possible. At the end of the day, our goal is simple—help our students succeed while creating safer communities.”
The first cohort of the nine-week program includes twelve students who meet with the instructor each week. Instruction is provided by a Northern New Mexico College faculty member, with funding from the New Mexico Higher Education Department.
“Our investment in training programs at the Penitentiary of New Mexico reflects our commitment to expanding access to quality education and career pathways for all New Mexicans,” said Higher Education Secretary Stephanie M. Rodriguez . “By funding these initiatives, we're helping adult learners gain valuable skills and credentials, that benefits both their futures and our state’s economy.”
“We are proud to participate in this transformative initiative that benefits our entire community by linking higher education to life-changing public safety efforts,” said Northern New Mexico College President Hector Balderas . “We appreciate Secretary Tafoya Lucero and Secretary Rodriguez for their partnership, and we are eager to expand similar higher education opportunities for all New Mexicans.”
The NMCD Reentry Division currently offers more than a dozen vocational programs across all eight state prisons and the privately operated Otero County Correctional Facility.
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The New Mexico Corrections Department is one of the largest state departments in New Mexico. The department staff and volunteers are fully committed to integrating programs in its facilities for rehabilitation. It is through programs and services the department aims to improve outcomes for offenders and enhance public safety in communities. For more information, visit cd.nm.gov and follow the New Mexico Corrections Department on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.