Job Training Albuquerque Expands Economic Opportunity Under “Affordable ABQ” Initiative
Free career training helps residents save money, boost wages, and access high-paying jobs
ALBUQUERQUE — The City of Albuquerque’s nationally recognized workforce initiative, Job Training Albuquerque (JTA), is helping residents gain new skills, secure higher-paying jobs, and make life more affordable as part of Mayor Tim Keller’s Affordable ABQ initiative.
Administered by the City’s Economic Development Department in partnership with Central New Mexico Community College (CNM), JTA provides free, high-quality training to employees of Albuquerque small businesses. As of September 30, 2025, 3,895 local workers from 397 small businesses have participated in JTA trainings, contributing to the creation of over 1,600 new jobs and adding more than $80 million in earning power to the local economy.
“We created Affordable ABQ to help families get ahead, not just get by,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “When residents can access free job training that leads to better wages and stable careers, that’s affordability in action. Through programs like JTA, we’re building a stronger economy where opportunity is within reach for everyone.”
The impact of Job Training Albuquerque extends across industries, from healthcare and hospitality to construction and technology, with participants reporting an average wage increase of more than 25 percent after completing training. The program continues to engage a diverse range of entrepreneurs and workers, with 40 percent of participating businesses female-owned, 35 percent minority-owned, and 7 percent LGBTQ-owned.
Under the Affordable ABQ umbrella, JTA represents the city’s investment in long-term affordability through economic mobility, helping residents increase their income while reducing the cost of education and training. Affordable ABQ connects residents to dozens of free and low-cost programs that make daily life more affordable, from meals and childcare to utility assistance and career education.
“Job Training Albuquerque is one of the best examples of what Affordable ABQ is all about,” said Economic Development Director Max Gruner. “We’re creating a city where residents don’t have to leave to find opportunity and where employers have access to the skilled workforce they need to thrive.”
Since its launch in 2020, Job Training Albuquerque has helped thousands of workers and businesses overcome workforce challenges, expand their potential, and create sustainable career pathways. The program’s expansion under Affordable ABQ continues to make Albuquerque one of the most accessible and opportunity-rich cities in the Southwest.
For more information on JTA training opportunities and other Affordable ABQ programs, visit cabq.gov/affordableabq or jobtrainingabq.org.