NMCD Launches HVAC Program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact: Brittany Roembach

Public Information Officer, Corrections Department

Brittany.roembach@cd.nm.gov

505-382-3541

October 21, 2024

New Mexico Corrections Department Launches HVAC Program

SANTA FE – The New Mexico Corrections Department (NMCD) is pioneering a new HVAC certification program at the Penitentiary of New Mexico, aiming to equip inmates with valuable skills for future employment.

“We’re excited to help increase the workforce in a vital industry,” said Corrections Department Cabinet Secretary Alisha Tafoya Lucero. “This program aims to equip students with essential skills and certifications to secure gainful employment in the HVAC industry upon release.”

Currently, 10 students are enrolled in the year-long program, which runs Mondays through Thursdays. The students will receive several valuable certifications, including:

OSHA 10 certification

EPA-approved Section 608 Technician Certification

Brazing certification for HVAC technicians

Upon successfully completing the program, students will have enough class hours to sit for the state HVAC exam.

Leading the way in this initiative is Santa Fe businessman Robert Romero, owner of Fahrenheit Work Metals LLC, who instructs NMCD students as they pursue their HVAC certification.

“This is something that’s bigger than myself and bigger than my own company,” said Robert Romero, HVAC class instructor. “We’re putting something bigger than us ahead of ourselves, for the greater good of our community.”

This initiative is funded by the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions (DWS), through the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).

“We know that having the skills and a clear career path can make all the difference in the success of someone re-entering the community from prison. The HVAC program provides a second chance to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to their communities,” said DWS Cabinet Secretary Sarita Nair . “We are proud to be part of this program and the work the Northern Local Workforce Development Board is doing through Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act funding.”

HVAC mechanics are in high demand in New Mexico, with a projected employment growth of 16.2 percent and a median wage of $46,250.

Raw broll: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/wza0sfwyz3626nul4pg4y/PNM-HVAC-Program-Broll.mp4?rlkey=pj8qgeizzt64guv1dhlbkt80m&st=e93fqtyd&dl=0

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The New Mexico Corrections Department (NMCD) 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 or follow NMCD on Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , X at @NMCDPIO.