Good Job New Mexico features funny, personal, and informative conversations with New Mexico workers from all walks of life about the various jobs they’ve worked, how they’ve gotten to where they are, where they might be headed, and some of their weirdest, most intriguing and inspiring stories, sprinkled with just the right amount of advice and tips for the workplace.
Episodes
Wednesday Feb 12, 2025
Wednesday Feb 12, 2025
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.
Wednesday Dec 04, 2024
Wednesday Dec 04, 2024
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.
Wednesday Nov 20, 2024
Wednesday Nov 20, 2024
How Do You Become an Apprentice? Is Apprenticeship worth it?
In this episode, Frank Lopez and Skyler Romero from Local Union 412 explore the transformative power of apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships, celebrating the 10th National Apprenticeship Week.
Whether you're contemplating a career change or just starting to explore your options, this conversation dives into how apprenticeships offer a pathway to a fulfilling, lifelong career. Learn about the value of hands-on training, the role these programs play in building New Mexico’s workforce, and how they’re shaping industries of the future.
Tune in to the Local 412 411 Podcast: https://ualocal412.org/podcasts/
Ready to start your journey? Discover more about apprenticeships here: https://www.dws.state.nm.us/Apprenticeship
Wednesday Nov 06, 2024
Wednesday Nov 06, 2024
How do you become an Industrial Engineer?
Join hosts Stacy Johnston and Karla Meléndez as they delve into the inspiring journey of Marissa Bowman, the Director of Manufacturing Engineering at Blue Halo.
Growing up in Las Cruces, New Mexico, surrounded by family and pecan trees, Marissa's path was far from clear. But through the guidance of mentors and a passion for problem-solving, she found herself immersed in the world of engineering. Discover how she navigated her way from working at Sandia National Labs to making impactful changes at Blue Halo, all while balancing family life and ultra-marathons.
Explore the fascinating work of Blue Halo, a company making strides in military defense and creating jobs in Albuquerque. Marissa shares her experiences, challenges, and the harmony she has found between work and life. Plus, get a behind-the-scenes look at the intriguing world of the Z machine and the unexpected adventures it brought.
Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with insights on engineering, career growth, and the importance of mentorship. Whether you're an aspiring engineer or simply curious about the field, this episode offers a delightful blend of personal stories and professional wisdom.
Explore career opportunities and learn more about Blue Halo:
https://bluehalo.com/careers/
https://www.youtube.com/@BlueHalollc
Wednesday Oct 23, 2024
Wednesday Oct 23, 2024
How do you become a Librarian? What's the difference between public and academic libraries?
In this episode, Nadia shares her experiences of balancing a busy family life with her love for literature, the differences between public and academic libraries, and the vital role libraries play in communities. Explore the diverse resources libraries offer and their adaptability in an ever-evolving digital world.
Get ready for a lively discussion on the importance of mentorship, the joy of learning, and the unexpected surprises of library life. Plus, discover how libraries continue to be a cornerstone of community support and engagement.
Good Job New Mexico!
Wednesday Oct 09, 2024
Wednesday Oct 09, 2024
How do you become a School Resource Counselor?
In this episode of Good Job New Mexico, we dive into the inspiring journey of Lorraine Chavez, also known as Ms. College Career, a college and career readiness resource counselor with Albuquerque Public Schools.
Hear her story on how she found her passion for helping students, and her journey to become the person she needed when she was younger.
Wednesday Sep 25, 2024
Wednesday Sep 25, 2024
Hey listeners! We're on break this week, but while we're out, we want to hear from YOU! Ever had an unforgettable experience at work? Maybe your interview went perfectly... until it didn't, or the lunchroom drama spiraled out of control. Whether it's funny, awkward, or downright bizarre, we want to feature your work stories on the podcast!
Send us your wild, inspiring, or cringe-worthy moments at goodjobnm@dws.nm.gov, and don't worry—if you'd like to stay anonymous, we've got you covered. Until we're back, keep being awesome, and we can't wait to share your stories soon on Good Job, New Mexico!
Wednesday Sep 11, 2024
Wednesday Sep 11, 2024
How do you become a Meteorologist? Is being a Meteorologist a good career?
In this thrilling episode of "Good Job, New Mexico," we sit down with Jacob Alexander, an operational meteorologist at Sandia National Laboratories, whose work goes far beyond the green screens of weather stations. Discover the dangerous and exciting moments that have defined his career.
Wednesday Aug 28, 2024
Wednesday Aug 28, 2024
In this special mini-episode of Good Job New Mexico, we're joined by our summer intern, Estevan Sandoval. Estevan shares his first internship experience, reflecting on the challenges, growth, and skills gained during his time with us. From creating office name tags to compiling a detailed booklet on workplace art, Estevan's contributions have left a lasting impact. Tune in to hear about his journey, future ambitions, and some fun rapid-fire questions!
Wednesday Aug 14, 2024
Wednesday Aug 14, 2024
How do you become a Sanitation Worker / Garbage Collector?
In this episode of "Good Job New Mexico," two employees from Albuquerque's Solid Waste Management Department, Philip Barajas and Martin Saiz, discuss their roles as waste collectors. They share insights on recycling myths, proper disposal practices, and the satisfaction they find in their work. The episode emphasizes the importance of waste management and encourages better recycling habits.
For more information on recycling, visit cabq.gov/solidwaste
If interested in the CDL program, visit or call a Workforce Center near you: dws.state.nm.us/Office-Locations
Stacy Johnston
Stacy Johnston is the Marketing and Communications Director for the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions. She started as a student intern and has continued to work for the Department for over 25 years. Over the course of her career, she pioneered the establishment of social media platforms within the department; was a founding employee of the department’s office of Communications, Marketing and Government Affairs, has spearheaded branding and marketing campaigns, and served a term as the Marketing Director for the National Association of Government Communicators. She graduated from the University of New Mexico and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing with an emphasis in Economics. Johnston was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is married, and has two sons, she enjoys being involved in the community and assisting with the employee volunteerism and engagement committee.
Good Job New Mexico is a Production of the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions | The New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions is 85% Federally funded with ($106,960,200), and 15% ($18,543,600) financed by non-federal sources in state fiscal year 2024. | The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are the participants own and do not reflect the views of the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions, or the New Mexico State Government.