
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
Jul 17, 2024
Jul 17, 2024
22 min
In this episode, your hosts Stacy Johnston and Karla Meléndez sit down with the inspiring Angie Alley, the Interim Associate Dean at Central New Mexico Community College.
Angie speaks to the importance of passion in education, the value of speaking well, and her love for Broadway musicals. You’ll hear about her adorable toy poodle, Archie, who brings smiles to her workplace, and even get a glimpse into her childhood dreams of teaching and performing.
Follow us on social media @GoodjobNM for behind-the-scenes content and adorable dog pictures!
Jul 3, 2024
Jul 3, 2024
19 min
In this episode we interview Marcos Martinez, the Deputy Secretary for the Department of Workforce Solutions. Marcos, who has been with the agency for over 30 years, shares his journey from starting in a field office in Taos to becoming Deputy Secretary in Albuquerque New Mexico. He discusses his passion for helping people find employment and his dedication to community service, emphasizing the importance of building relationships and maintaining respect.
Jun 19, 2024
Jun 19, 2024
18 min
In today's episode, we chat with Robert Chavez, a dedicated Motor Coach Operator (Bus Driver) for the City of Albuquerque’s Transit Department. Robert shares his journey from paratransit services to city buses, highlighting the extensive training and focus required for his job. He provides engaging anecdotes about regular passengers, discusses the challenges of the role, and expresses his love for driving. The conversation also underscores the city's active hiring efforts, the job benefits, and Robert's commitment to helping people.
Jun 5, 2024
Jun 5, 2024
17 min
How do you become a nurse?
Join hosts Stacy Johnston and Karla Meléndez in this episode of "Good Job, New Mexico" as they chat with Jess Wood, a nurse practitioner
Jess shares her journey of balancing multiple jobs, and the importance of continuous learning in healthcare. She also offers valuable advice for aspiring nurses and recounts memorable patient encounters.
May 22, 2024
May 22, 2024
25 min
Join hosts Stacy Johnston and Karla Meléndez as they chat with Ryan Kennedy, the Project Purchasing Manager for Cupertino Electric, currently working on the Meta project in Los Lunas. Ryan shares insights into his career and the purchasing field.
Tune in to hear Ryan’s inspiring story—a testament to resilience, seizing opportunities, and how a diverse career path can lead to unexpected and rewarding destinations.
May 8, 2024
May 8, 2024
26 min
Join hosts Stacy Johnston and Karla Meléndez in this episode of "Good Job, New Mexico" as they chat with Sophie Trusty, the Program Director at Mandy's Farm.
Sophie shares her journey from New Hampshire to New Mexico and her passion for agriculture and special education. Discover how Mandy's Farm supports individuals with disabilities to live fulfilling lives, breaking down stereotypes along the way.
Learn about the challenges and rewards of advocating for inclusivity in the community. Join the conversation and be inspired to make a difference in your community. Become a volunteer today at Mandy's Farm: https://www.mandysfarm.org/volunteer
Interested in other service or volunteer opportunities? Check out AmeriCorps: https://americorps.gov/about
Apr 24, 2024
Apr 24, 2024
18 min
What is Pre-Apprenticeship?
Join hosts Stacy Johnston and Karla Meléndez as they dive into the world of pre-apprenticeship with special guest Sade Smith. In this episode, Sade shares her journey from her very first job to her experience as the first pre-apprentice with the Department of Workforce Solutions.
With engaging conversation and practical advice, this episode offers a glimpse into the world of pre-apprenticeship and its impact on young professionals like Sade. So, whether you're considering a pre-apprenticeship or simply curious about career-building opportunities, join us on "Good Job, New Mexico" for an insightful discussion.
For more information on pre-apprenticeship and other programs, visit https://www.dws.state.nm.us/en-us/Job-Seekers/Explore-Career-Options/Apprenticeship
Good Job New Mexico!
Apr 15, 2024
Apr 15, 2024
30 sec
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.
Apr 9, 2024
Apr 9, 2024
22 min
The podcast "Good Job, New Mexico" features hosts Stacy Johnston and Karla Meléndez from the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions. In each episode, they delve into various aspects of individuals' work lives, exploring different career paths and transitions. The hosts share personal anecdotes, discuss their own career journeys, and engage in insightful conversations with guests from diverse industries and career stages.
In the debut episode, Stacy and Karla introduce themselves, sharing tidbits about their backgrounds, career aspirations, and influences. Through a conversational format, they touch on topics such as career changes, mentorship, workplace dynamics, and the importance of supporting youth in career exploration.
Meet the Faces Behind the Mic!

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.
