ABQ Times

ALBUQUERQUE – Job Training Albuquerque (JTA), the City of Albuquerque’s premier workforce program in partnership with CNM, is expanding its courses to serve the local hospitality industry, an important employment sector in the city. Through a new partnership with the New Mexico Restaurant Association (NMRA), JTA will now provide a range of courses tailored for restaurant and hospitality workers. The new courses include an online ServSafe food handler class, a private ServSafe food safety class, a ServSafe Manager certification class, and a comprehensive online employee training program for restaurants.

These new courses are designed to meet the high demand for skilled workers in the hospitality sector and will be available at no cost to Albuquerque-based small businesses with 500 or fewer employees. Despite making significant strides, the hospitality industry has struggled to attract and retain employees following the pandemic, leaving many positions unfilled.

“The restaurant industry has faced numerous challenges over the past few years. By funding these programs for their employees, it will provide much-needed relief to restaurant owners,” said Carol Wight, CEO of NMRA. “This initiative will also open new career paths for individuals interested in the hospitality industry.”

The restaurant industry offers valuable opportunities for employees to gain experience and advance their careers, with many promotions occurring from within. The newly offered comprehensive online training program is expected to be widely utilized. It covers all aspects of running a restaurant, from back-of-house operations and human resources to safety precautions. This type of program can be cost-prohibitive for struggling restaurants but will now be available free of charge through JTA.

“By expanding our program to include these hospitality trainings, we are directly responding to the needs of our community and the restaurant industry,” said Workforce Development Liaison Justin Hilliard. “Our goal is to support small businesses and empower residents with the skills they need to thrive.”

“As our city grows, we’re continuing to invest in proven programs to support folks on their career journeys,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “These resources are so important both for the individuals and small businesses who use them, and we look forward to the continued positive impact that JTA will have on our city’s workforce.”

Since its inception in 2020, JTA has offered over 125 unique skills-based trainings, successfully engaging 1,656 workers from 246 Albuquerque small businesses. Trainings are available in high-demand sectors like technology, business management, health care, construction, early childhood education, and more. As of June 2024, participating businesses have reported remarkable outcomes including creating over 872 jobs, a 24% increase in wages, and an additional $41.8 million in annual earning power. These achievements highlight JTA's success in creating opportunities and enhancing career outcomes for Albuquerque's small businesses and workforce.

JTA is currently accepting applications for various trainings. For a full list of trainings application details and more information visit jobtrainingabq.org.