This session will provide New Mexico employers with an up-to-date understanding of the state’s STEM and technology hiring environment. We’ll explore labor market insights, challenges in recruitment and retention, and highlight resources and strategies to strengthen the talent pipeline. Employers will leave with practical tools and connections to support their workforce needs.

Speaker: Monica Sandoval-Johnson

This session will help New Mexico employers refine their hiring practices by exploring how to identify the right candidate fit for STEM and tech roles. We’ll examine strategies for assessing technical and soft skills, aligning candidates with organizational culture, and managing expectations around pay, experience, and career growth. Employers will leave with practical approaches to strengthen hiring outcomes, reduce turnover, and ensure long-term workforce alignment.

Speaker: Jeffrey Maholtz

In today’s competitive labor market, promoting open positions goes beyond posting a job description. Employers must think like marketers—crafting compelling employer brands, using digital platforms effectively, and highlighting what makes their workplace stand out. This session will walk New Mexico businesses through practical marketing strategies to attract and engage the right candidates. Attendees will learn how to leverage branding, storytelling, and digital outreach tools to differentiate themselves and fill roles more effectively.

Speaker: Lauren LoBue

Recruiting for STEM and tech roles requires more than posting jobs and waiting for applicants—it takes a strategic, process-driven approach. In this session, a seasoned tech recruiter will share 10 actionable strategies to help New Mexico employers improve their hiring process. From evaluating resumes effectively to building strong communication practices with candidates, identifying talent pipelines, and leveraging modern advertising methods, participants will walk away with practical tools to attract and hire the right people.

Speaker: Jett Metcalf

Equitable hiring practices ensure that all candidates—regardless of background, gender, race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status—have a fair chance to access opportunities. For New Mexico employers, this is especially important given the state’s diversity and growing STEM/tech workforce needs. This session will explore practical ways to reduce bias in hiring, create inclusive job postings, broaden candidate pipelines, and establish fair evaluation processes that help employers attract and retain diverse talent.

Speaker: Grace Learner

Attracting and retaining top talent goes beyond salary—employees are increasingly seeking holistic benefits that support their health, wellness, financial stability, and long-term career growth. This session will explore what benefits are most in demand among today’s workforce, including benchmarks for competitive pay, health and wellness programs, and professional development opportunities. Employers will leave with actionable insights into creating benefits packages that balance affordability with employee satisfaction and retention.

Speakers: TBD

Developing a strong STEM and tech workforce in New Mexico requires early engagement and sustained pathways from education to employment. This panel discussion will bring together industry, education, and workforce leaders to explore how employers can support K-12 engagement and internship opportunities that prepare students for future careers. Panelists will share insights on building partnerships with schools, designing meaningful internships, and addressing barriers that limit access to career pathways.

Speakers: Panel

Kathy Steen – NewSpace Nexus

Nate McKenzie – New Mexico Dept. of Workforce Solutions

Ashley Prelo – CNM

Thomas Chynoweth – Future Focused Education, X3 (High School Internships)