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County introduces $250,000 pilot to train young adults for environmental and natural‑resource careers
Summary
Commissioners approved introduction of a $250,000, one‑year pilot to create pre‑apprenticeship training and paid internships for young adults in environmental and natural‑resource jobs; the proposal will return for final adoption on May 27.
Bernalillo County commissioners introduced a one‑year, $250,000 pilot program on May 13 to provide pre‑apprenticeship training and paid internships for young adults from historically underserved communities, focusing on outdoor education, natural‑resource management and climate resilience.
Deputy County Manager Lisa Sobia White presented the proposed pilot and said the Human Resources Department would lead the program in partnership with Parks and Recreation, Open Space and Technical Services. The program is designed to address shortages of skilled workers in water resources, land management, wildfire mitigation, tree restoration and related fields.
"The purpose of the proposed program is to create a workforce development initiative for young adults from historically underserved communities focused on providing access and career readiness to sustainable careers in outdoor education and natural resource management," Deputy County Manager Lisa Sobia White said.
Commissioners supported the introduction and praised the program as a pathway to stable employment. Chair Olivas told commissioners he had seen strong community interest at a climate and sustainability meeting and said he was contributing $160,000 in district‑directed funds outside the resolution to help resource the pilot. Deputy County Manager White said the formal resolution would return for final adoption at the May 27 commission meeting.
The pilot budget covers training, stipends, outreach, partnership work and administrative costs; staff said the goal is that internships and pre‑apprenticeship slots lead to sustainable jobs in county services, the city or the private sector.
