The New Mexico Environment Department, San Juan College, and the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions have launched the Careers Remediating Environmental Waste (CREW) program to enhance environmental sustainability and workforce development. This initiative will train jobseekers in environmental cleanup, focusing on uranium reclamation and remediation.
Led by the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED), this collaboration brings together technical expertise and educational resources to prepare a skilled workforce for the state’s environmental challenges. NMED will guide the program’s curriculum and support potential employers in the field of environmental remediation.
San Juan College (SJC) in Farmington will host the training, utilizing its modern facilities to provide a comprehensive learning environment. SJC’s role will be crucial in preparing graduates for careers in environmental restoration. Classes are set to begin in February 2025.
Dr. Lorenzo Reyes, San Juan College’s Dean of Workforce and Economic Development, expressed excitement about the partnership, citing the college’s history of innovation and industry collaboration. “We are proud to prepare graduates with the in-demand skills needed for these critical roles,” he said.
The New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions (DWS) will coordinate the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act activities, helping participants access the training required to meet the state’s employment and economic objectives. Eligible participants can receive a $2,000 monthly stipend, along with assistance for childcare, housing, and travel expenses.
“CREW is a key part of our workforce strategy to focus on climate resilience and natural resource management, both critical for the state’s future,” said DWS Cabinet Secretary Sarita Nair. The program aligns with the state’s workforce goals by addressing pressing environmental issues while creating sustainable jobs.
The CREW program not only supports environmental restoration but also fosters job creation. Participants will acquire practical skills in environmental cleanup, preparing them for careers in the growing sector of environmental science and remediation.
State Representative D. Wonda Johnson, who sponsored legislation in 2022 to clean up former uranium mine and mill sites, expressed pride in the program’s development. “This initiative represents empowerment, providing meaningful careers to our communities while addressing the legacy of uranium mining,” said Rep. Johnson.
CREW is a forward-thinking initiative that meets New Mexico’s environmental and public health needs while generating new job opportunities. By focusing on uranium remediation, the program is a vital step toward restoring the state’s ecological balance and fostering sustainable practices in the workforce.