Good Job New Mexico!

How to Become an Aircraft Pilot: Get-There-Itis

How do you become an Aircraft Pilot? Is being an Aircraft Pilot a Good Job?

In this episode of Good Job, New Mexico, we chat with Brad Hoy — a recently promoted airline Captain whose journey to the skies started in some pretty down-to-earth places. Born in Ohio, Brad worked in factories, ran forklifts, and did construction before deciding, on a whim, to become a pilot.

Now living in Austin and working for a company out of New Mexico, he still drives Uber in his spare time just to stay busy. It’s an easygoing conversation about trying new things, making unexpected moves, and how you don’t need a perfect plan to find a career that fits.

#CareerJourney, #AirlinePilot, #UnconventionalCareers, #SideHustle, #LifeOfAPilot, #GoodJobNewMexico

Albuquerque Isotopes Play-by-play Announcer: Play Ball

How do you become a Play-by-Play Announcer or a Sports Journalist?

From Bay Area newsrooms to ballparks across the country, Josh Suchon’s career has been shaped by a deep connection to the game of baseball. In this episode, we walk through his full journey—working in sports media, hosting radio shows, calling games at every level, and becoming the longtime voice of the Albuquerque Isotopes. Josh also shares advice for anyone chasing their dream job, along with insights on storytelling, career longevity, and staying passionate in a competitive industry.

#JoshSuchon #SportsBroadcasting #Baseball #AlbuquerqueIsotopes #SportsMedia #PlayByPlay #Podcast #CareerAdvice #GoodJobNewMexico

Business Banker: Listen to Your Inner Voice

How do you become a Business Banker?

In this episode of Good Job, New Mexico, host Stacy Johnston talks with her husband, Brad Johnston, a Business Banker whose career has taken him from working at a pool in Los Alamos to managing the largest Wells Fargo branch in Phoenix, Arizona to becoming a VP Business Relationship Manager at New Mexico Bank & Trust in Albuquerque. Co-host Veronica Robledo joins the conversation as they dig into the realities of career growth, change, and resilience.

Brad shares:

• What it was like to be laid off, and how he moved forward
• His perspective as a hiring manager in the banking world
• Lessons learned from non-linear career paths
• Advice for job seekers trying to stand out

If you’re navigating career transitions, job interviews, or leadership roles, this episode has practical takeaways you can actually use to further your own career.

Cosmetologist: A Cut Above the Rest

How do you become a Cosmetologist? 

In this inspiring episode, we chat with Joni Ochoa, Director of Cosmetology at New Mexico Junior College.

Joni opens up about the her journey from cleaning nail polish bottles in her friend's beauty salon to the hustle of entrepreneurship and owning her own business.

Whether you're dreaming of your own chair in a salon or just love a good story of perseverance and passion, this conversation is packed with real talk, heartfelt reflections, and plenty of laughs. Tune in for a glimpse into the colorful, empowering world of a young cosmetologist on the rise.

Aquarist: An Otterly Awesome Career

On this episode of Good Job, New Mexico, we sit down with Briana Santilli, a professional aquarist whose journey into the world of aquarium science is anything but ordinary.

Briana talks about how her passion for animals that led her into a hands-on, purpose-driven career caring for aquatic life. From the challenges of the job to the quiet, awe-inspiring moments behind the scenes, she shares a real look at what it means to work in this unique field.

Whether you're a student thinking about science, someone curious about animal care, or just a fan of cool jobs you don’t hear about every day—this one’s for you.

🔹 What You’ll Learn:

• How Briana got her start in aquarium work

• What a typical day looks like in her role

• Tips for those interested in marine science or animal care

• A peek behind the curtain of aquarium operations

Tune in and get inspired to follow your own unique path—whatever it may be.

Aircraft Mechanic: Taking Off Into Entrepreneurship

How did Maria Vianco become one of the few female aviation mechanics in New Mexico? In this episode of Good Job, New Mexico, host Stacy Johnston dives into Maria's incredible career path—from leaving college to follow her passion for mechanics to becoming a successful aviation technician and business owner.

What you'll learn in this episode:

• How Maria transitioned from mechanical engineering to aviation maintenance

• What it takes to become an aviation technician and start your own business

• The challenges and rewards of being a female mechanic in a male-dominated industry

• Wild aviation stories—including an emergency landing and a surprising encounter with a snake in a plane wing

If you’re interested in aviation careers, aircraft maintenance, entrepreneurship, or inspiring career change stories, this episode is for you.

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Watch now and get inspired!

#AviationMechanic #WomenInSTEM #AircraftMaintenance #Entrepreneurship #CareerChange #Podcast #AviationLife #FemaleMechanic #STEMCareers

State Auditor: Where the Rubber Meets the Road

In this episode of Good Job, New Mexico, host Stacy Johnston and guest host Cabinet Secretary Sarita Nair speak with Joseph M. Maestas, PE CFE, the State Auditor of New Mexico. Maestas shares his journey from growing up on a rural farm to studying civil engineering and later transitioning into public service. He opens up about the dedication to his studies through college, the federal government, and becoming Mayor of Española.

Maestas offers valuable insights on the importance of education, problem-solving, and adapting to new career opportunities. Tune in to hear how persistence, resilience, and a willingness to fight for what is right can lead to unexpected and fulfilling careers.

Podcast Host: Radio Cafe - Mary-Charlotte Domandi

Join us as we sit down with Mary-Charlotte Domandi, a seasoned radio and podcasting expert, to explore her experiences in the industry. From her early inspirations to the insights she’s gained over the years, we dive into the world of audio storytelling, creativity, and connection. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with wisdom, humor, and behind-the-scenes stories from a true broadcasting professional.

Visit her website and listen to her podcast at: RadioCafe.Org

Sarita Nair: Road to Cabinet Secretary

Welcome to Season 2!

In this episode, we sit down with Sarita Nair, Cabinet Secretary of the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions, to explore the twists and turns of career paths, the impact of mentorship, and the future of workforce development.

Sarita shares her journey—from studying African-American studies to working in international development, earning a law degree, and finding unexpected opportunities along the way. We also discuss the surprising (and sometimes hilarious) results of career aptitude tests, the evolving job landscape, and how quantum technology and aerospace are shaping the state's economy.

With candid reflections on embracing uncertainty, connecting the dots in hindsight, and the invaluable guidance of mentors, this episode is packed with wisdom for anyone navigating their professional journey.

Good Job New Mexico! Season Wrap-Up

Welcome to the season finale of Good Job, New Mexico! Join hosts Stacy and Karla as they reflect on their favorite moments and the insightful guests of season one.

As Karla bids farewell to the podcast to pursue new opportunities, Stacy looks forward to future seasons filled with more inspiring stories and career insights. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion, fun anecdotes, and a promise of more to come.