Job & Career in New Mexico

6 verified resources.

About Job & Career for Fathers

Job and career resources for fathers run through the American Job Center (AJC) network — there are roughly 2,400 physical locations nationwide, every one of which offers free services. AJCs provide job search assistance, resume and interview help, WIOA-funded training (often up to

0,000+ in tuition and fees for in-demand occupations), and connections to apprenticeships. Every state has a workforce agency that oversees unemployment insurance, labor market information, and rapid response services for laid-off workers. Registered Apprenticeship programs pay workers while they train for skilled trades (electrician, plumber, HVAC, heavy equipment, and increasingly healthcare and IT). For formerly incarcerated fathers, state Department of Labor reentry programs and organizations like the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) provide transitional jobs and placement. This directory includes AJCs, workforce boards, apprenticeship programs, and reentry services.

Job & Career in New Mexico

New Mexico district courts handle divorce and custody in each of its 13 judicial districts. The Child Support Enforcement Division operates under HSD. Albuquerque, Las Cruces, Rio Rancho, and Santa Fe are the largest cities. New Mexico Legal Aid (NMLA) is the statewide LSC-funded civil legal aid organization.

6 Resources

1. NM Workforce Connection Centers — Free

Statewide network of workforce centers providing job search assistance, training referrals, resume help, and career services for New Mexico residents. Dads can use computers, workshops, and one-on-one counseling at 401 Broadway NE in Albuquerque or other regional offices. Call 505-841-8405 Monday through Friday 8am to 5pm or search jobs at jobs.state.nm.us. Services are free.

505-841-8405 · 401 Broadway NE, Albuquerque, NM 87102 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

2. NM Department of Workforce Solutions — Free

State agency administering unemployment insurance benefits, job listings, labor market data, and workforce development programs across New Mexico. Fathers who have lost work can file UI claims, search openings, and access training referrals. Visit 401 Broadway NE in Albuquerque, call 877-664-6984 Monday through Friday 8am to 5pm, or apply online at dws.state.nm.us. Services are free.

877-664-6984 · 401 Broadway NE, Albuquerque, NM 87102 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

3. Goodwill Industries of New Mexico — Free

Job training, career development, and employment services for New Mexicans facing barriers to work, including fathers with gaps in employment, criminal history, or limited schooling. Goodwill offers free career coaching, skills classes, and connections to employers. Visit 5000 San Mateo NE in Albuquerque, call 505-881-6401 Monday through Friday 8am to 5pm, or see goodwillnm.org for locations.

505-881-6401 · 5000 San Mateo NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

4. NM Division of Vocational Rehabilitation — Free

Employment services for New Mexicans with disabilities, including assessment, job training, assistive technology, and placement support. Dads living with a disability, including injuries, chronic conditions, or mental health disabilities, can apply for services at 435 St. Michaels Dr #D in Santa Fe. Call 505-954-8500 Monday through Friday 8am to 5pm or visit dvr.state.nm.us. Services are free to eligible individuals.

505-954-8500 · 435 St. Michaels Dr #D, Santa Fe, NM 87505 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

5. SL Start – South Valley Job Training — Free

Workforce development and job training programs in Albuquerque's South Valley, serving fathers and families with career pathways, skills classes, and employer connections. SL Start is located at 318 Isleta Blvd SW. Call 505-877-0380 Monday through Friday 8am to 5pm to ask about current programs, eligibility, and enrollment windows. Services are free or low-cost for qualifying participants.

505-877-0380 · 318 Isleta Blvd SW, Albuquerque, NM 87105 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

6. NM Indian Affairs – Workforce — Free

Employment and training services for Native American communities across New Mexico, coordinated by the NM Indian Affairs Department. Programs support tribal fathers and families through job referrals, training funding, and economic development initiatives. Visit the Wendell Chino Building in Santa Fe or call 505-476-1600 Monday through Friday 8am to 5pm. More information is at iad.state.nm.us.

505-476-1600 · Wendell Chino Bldg, Santa Fe, NM 87501 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

Job & Career — Common Questions

What is an American Job Center?
Free walk-in career center funded by the US Department of Labor. Services include job search help, resume writing, interview practice, computer access, WIOA training grants, and direct employer connections. Nearly 2,400 centers nationwide — find yours at careeronestop.org.
Can I get help if I have a record?
Yes. Many states have reentry employment programs; the Center for Employment Opportunities runs transitional jobs in 30+ cities. The Work Opportunity Tax Credit incentivizes employers to hire formerly-incarcerated workers. Fair Chance laws in many states restrict early background checks.
What's an apprenticeship?
Paid on-the-job training combined with classroom instruction leading to a journey-level credential. Common in trades (electrician, plumber, carpenter, HVAC) but expanding into healthcare, IT, and finance. Earn while you learn — no student debt. Find programs at apprenticeship.gov.
What if I'm on unemployment?
You likely qualify for free reemployment services through your American Job Center and for WIOA-funded training while receiving benefits. Dislocated worker services are priority for anyone laid off — including severance, retraining, and relocation support.