WIOA Youth – Northern Region
WIOA Youth Program Northern New Mexico | Ages 14-24 | Free Job Training
Ready to launch your career?
YDI’s Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA) Youth Program provides paid work experience and comprehensive career training for young adults ages 14-24 across our region. If you’re in Cibola, Colfax, Los Alamos, McKinley, Mora, Rio Arriba, San Juan, San Miguel, Santa Fe, or Taos County, we connect you with local employers for hands-on internships in high-demand fields. This is your launchpad: we pair your paid placement with essential support, including mentoring, financial literacy training, and 12 months of follow-up services, to help you build a successful and sustainable future at home in Northern New Mexico.
Our Comprehensive Support
The WIOA Youth program provides year-round support to help you overcome barriers and succeed in education and your career. We focus on 14 key areas, including:
Drop-Out Prevention & Recovery
Gain targeted support and resources to help you stay in school or successfully re-enroll and earn your diploma or GED.
Career Exploration & Training
Discover your passions and receive training for in-demand careers right here in Northern New Mexico.
College & Career Transition
Receive personalized guidance and preparation to successfully transition to college or post-secondary training.
Financial Literacy & Counseling
Master essential money skills like budgeting, saving, and managing your paycheck with expert guidance.
Soft Skills & Leadership Development
Develop the critical soft skills that employers value most, like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
Ongoing Support Services
Get help overcoming barriers like transportation and receive a full year of follow-up support to ensure your long-term success.
Real Results Last Summer
Youth & Young Adults Placed in Jobs
Employer Partners Recruited
Months of Follow-Up Support
Hours of PAID Work Experience
Real Jobs Our Participants Have Landed
Get inspired by the real career paths our participants are launching right here in Northern New Mexico. This is more than a job—it’s the first step in a lasting career.
Utilities Account Collector
Handle customer accounts, process payments, and develop professional communication skills in the utilities sector.
Healthcare Direct Support Professional
Provide essential care and support services while building experience in the growing healthcare industry.
Laborer/Carpenter
Learn construction skills, work with tools, and gain hands-on experience in the skilled trades sector.
Guest Services Agent
Develop customer service excellence and hospitality management skills in the tourism industry.
Library Clerk
Support community education services while gaining administrative and organizational experience.
Animal Care Technician
Care for animals while exploring opportunities in veterinary services and animal welfare.
Program Details & Partnerships
About the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) is a landmark federal program designed to help job seekers access employment, education, training, and support services to succeed in the labor market. YDI is proud to be the designated service provider for the Northern Area Local Workforce Development Board (NALWDB), administering the WIOA Youth program to serve our region’s next generation.
Our Service Delivery Model
- Location-Based Services: Our staff are headquartered at America’s Job Centers of New Mexico (AJCs) throughout the region.
- Mobile & Virtual Services: We provide in-person services in communities beyond the AJCs and offer virtual appointments to ensure accessibility for all eligible youth in our 10-county area.
Key Program Partnerships
To provide a comprehensive network of support, we actively collaborate with:
- Adult Basic Education (ABE)
- Job Corps
- New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions (NMDWS)
- TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
- WIOA Adult & Dislocated Worker Programs
- …and many other community and educational organizations.
The 14 Elements
Our program is built around 14 key elements designed to address barriers and promote success:
- Drop-Out Prevention
- Drop-Out Recovery
- Alternative Education
- Occupational Skills Training
- Leadership Development
- Financial Literacy
- Guidance & Counseling
- Entrepreneurial Skills
- Labor Market Info
- Work Experience
- College Prep
- Supportive Services
- Adult Mentoring
- Follow Up Services
Our Official Service Area
We provide services to youth and young adults aged 14-24 residing in the following Northern New Mexico counties:
Cibola
Colfax
Los Alamos
McKinley
Mora
Rio Arriba
San Juan
San Miguel
Santa Fe
Taos
Not in our Northern Region service area?
Explore the WIOA program in the Central Region of New Mexico, serving Bernalillo, Sandoval, Valencia, and Torrance counties.
Ready to Start Your Career Journey?
For information about Education, Employment, & Training programs, call 505-977-3216, Monday through Friday MST, 8 am to 5 pm, or email ccordova@ydinm.org.