SW New Mexico News

Together with New Mexico State University, Las Cruces Public Schools (LCPS) will host the Energy Expo and Career Symposium this fall. The event aims to introduce college students and more than 3,000 middle and high school students to career opportunities in the energy sector throughout New Mexico.

The symposium is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 1 on the NMSU campus. Organizers have noted that there is still room for companies interested in presenting, demonstrating, or sponsoring the event.

“The Expo is a first-hand opportunity for energy and energy-related businesses, industries and education partners to introduce students to career fields in a rapidly growing employment sector,” said Kathleen Gardner, a Career Readiness and Work-Based Learning Teacher with LCPS. “There are a variety of ways to participate and reach the workforce that employers will need in the coming years as our students prepare for their own futures.”

Gardner also mentioned that students from Grant, Sierra, Hidalgo, Luna, Otero counties along with Doña Ana will be attending the event.

The energy sector plays a significant role in job creation and economic growth within New Mexico. Earlier this year, the Solar Energy Industries Association ranked New Mexico 17th nationally in terms of installed capacity and projected growth. Additionally, it is the second-largest crude oil producer in the nation after Texas. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, New Mexico ranks among the top 10 natural gas-producing states and contributes seven percent of national total natural gas gross withdrawals.

Employers interested in participating can submit vendor applications through an available link.