HOBBS, N.M. — New Mexico Junior College welcomed representatives from Urenco USA (UUSA) and New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology (New Mexico Tech) to campus on Aug. 4 for a collaborative visit focused on strengthening workforce development opportunities and expanding educational pathways for students pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.

The visit brought together leaders from NMJC, UUSA, and New Mexico Tech for discussions centered on workforce needs, student success and future partnerships designed to support New Mexico's growing energy and technology sectors.

The day began at the Steve McCleery Industrial Training Center before participants toured several NMJC facilities, including the Oil and Gas Training Ground, CDL training facilities, Allied Health programs, and the newly renovated Heidel Hall. The tour highlighted NMJC's hands-on training opportunities and its commitment to preparing students for high-demand careers across multiple industries.

The visit builds upon a strong partnership between NMJC, The NMJC Foundation, and UUSA; which includes the company's Community Impact funding initiative. Through a four-year, $400,000 commitment, UUSA is supporting internships and scholarships for students preparing to enter the workforce and contribute to the company's future talent pipeline. In addition to discussing current workforce initiatives, leaders explored the potential for articulation agreements and transfer pathways that would allow students completing NMJC's Energy Technology program and other technical degrees to seamlessly continue their education at New Mexico Tech.

"The opportunities we are most excited about involve our continued collaboration, expanding into areas and programming related to high school students, as well as opportunities to streamline the transition from New Mexico Junior College to New Mexico Tech to meet the STEM workforce needs of New Mexico," said Dr. Michael Jackson, president of New Mexico Tech. "We look forward to coming back down. We look forward to continuing to grow the relationship because it is through this relationship that sustainable partnerships can be developed." 

Dr. Lisa Hardison, Director of Community Relations at UUSA, said the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to developing local talent and creating educational opportunities that benefit the region. "We want to ensure that we have every opportunity to grow our local workforce, and it makes sense that NMJC has a portion of that, and New Mexico Tech could have a portion as well because of their emphasis on engineering," Hardison said. "It helps us keep local people local, and that's our main goal."

NMJC Interim President, Cathy Mitchell said the visit represents an important step toward creating a stronger workforce pipeline that benefits students, employers and the broader community. "This visit demonstrates what is possible when education and industry work together with a shared vision," Mitchell said. "By strengthening partnerships with UUSA and New Mexico Tech, we are creating clear pathways for students to gain valuable skills, continue their education and build meaningful careers right here in New Mexico. These collaborations not only support our students' success but also help ensure our community has the skilled workforce needed to meet future industry demands."

The discussions reinforced a shared commitment among all three organizations to expand educational opportunities, support workforce development and create long-term partnerships that contribute to the economic growth of Lea County and New Mexico.

Registration for NMJC's Fall 2026 semester is currently underway. Classes begin Aug. 17. Students interested in enrolling can visit www.nmjc.edu or contact NMJC Admissions at 575-492-2577 for more information.

About: New Mexico Junior College (NMJC) is a leading educational institution committed to providing success through learning and high-quality education to its diverse student body. Founded in 1965, NMJC offers a wide range of academic programs, certifications, and services to empower students to achieve their educational and career goals.

Contact: Valerie Onsurez Gauna, Director of Marketing & Public Relations, New Mexico Junior College, 575-492-2780, vgauna@nmjc.edu OR Nick Alvarado, Vice President of Student Services