Partnership prepares high school students for future in electric utility industry

(Albuquerque, NM) – PNM is partnering and providing funding to create a pathway for high school students to pursue rewarding careers in the electric utility industry, to develop the high-skilled energy workforce of tomorrow.

The PNM Power Pros program is a partnership with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 611 and high schools around New Mexico to train students to become electric utility trade professionals.

PNM has provided $1 million to ensure the program's success in three schools this year, with plans to expand to more New Mexico high schools next year.

The program officially kicks off today at ACE Leadership High School in Albuquerque, the Silver Consolidated Schools in Silver City, N.M. and Tularosa High School in Tularosa, N.M.

"PNM Power Pros is an innovative, first-of-its-kind program that includes classroom teaching and hands-on training," said PNM President and CEO Don Tarry. "This program will help students find rewarding careers that allow them to live and work right here in New Mexico."

Upon graduation from PNM Power Pros, students will receive OSHA 10 certification and career and technical education (CTE) course credits. According to the U.S. Department of Education, eight years after their expected graduation date students who focused on CTE courses while in high school had higher median annual earnings than students who did not. Additionally, graduation rates increase significantly among high school students who take CTE courses.

"The IBEW Local 611 is pleased to be working with PNM and high schools around the state to develop this curriculum, training the electric utility professionals of tomorrow," said Alfonso Martinez Jr., IBEW Local 611 business manager. "The PNM Power Pros training program will allow high school students to prepare for successful careers in the electric trades while remaining at the forefront of the latest technologies and advancements in renewable energy. We will create a pipeline of highly trained professionals for businesses and organizations who rely on electricity for economic growth."

New Mexico Lt. Gov. Howie C. Morales said, "the State of New Mexico and PNM have a history of working together to meet the growing demands of the electrical industry." He noted that the electric grid is modernizing as new uses and resources come to life – from electric vehicles to solar and wind power, and beyond. "The future needs smart, well-trained technicians as the transition to clean energy continues with New Mexico leading the way."

Over the last five years PNM shareholders along with the PNM Resources Foundation has provided more than $20 million of focused support to the communities and customers it serves.

For more information about PNM Power Pros and its commitment to supporting New Mexico schools, please visit www.pnm.com/trade