New Mexico gives $750k in training funds for 44 jobs, some paying only $15/hour

(The Center Square) - The New Mexico Job Training Incentive Program Board approved funding for up to 44 New Mexico employees at its latest meeting, according to the New Mexico Economic Development Department.

The Job Training Incentive Program will provide a maximum reimbursement total of $747,053, an average of $16,978.47 per job.

The JTIP provides funding for applicants whose employees meet various state-approved criteria, and the EDD reimburses for programs that train newly hired state residents, particularly in rural areas.

“The positions approved in August represent the type of quality jobs we want to cultivate in New Mexico,” EDD Acting Cabinet Secretary Mark Roper said in a statement. “JTIP directly assists companies with local staffing expansion, strategically invests in our economy, and supports communities throughout the state.”

August JTIP awards support jobs with hourly wages ranging from $15 to $62.

"These employees add value to the local economy, spurring business growth and securing future job opportunities within their communities," a release said.

BlackVe, Inc. was the largest recipient, receiving a $301,306 award for training seven workers.

"BlackVe applies cutting-edge design, manufacturing, and production technologies to design, manufacture, and operate satellites," the release said. The company is a national security-focused space company. This is BlackVe’s first JTIP application."

Additionally, Emerging Technology Ventures, Inc. in Las Cruces will receive $35,570 to train two employees who will make an average of $30 an hour.

Plus, Gridworks, Inc. in Albuquerque will get $101,340 to train six workers making an average of $33 an hour, as well as two interns making an average wage of $26.

La Primera Tortilla Factory Inc. in Sunland Park also received JTIP funding. It got $143,001 for training 21 workers, earning an average of $15 an hour.

Also, SasquatchXC dba: Sasquatch Campers Inc. of Farmington got $66,815 in funding to train five workers, making an average of $22 hourly.

And Sceye, Inc. of Moriarty got $91,020 to train two workers, making an average of $62 an hour.