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- calendar_today November 8, 2026
Workforce Development Efforts at SFCC Benefit Nearly 200 Students
Nearly 200 students have benefited from the City of Santa Fe's workforce development incentive, made possible by an investment from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Over the past 12 months, 184 students received scholarships for various Santa Fe Community College (SFCC) programs, supporting the city's efforts to fill critical workforce needs in the community.
Programs and Training Offered
Students at SFCC were able to pursue degrees and certifications through the scholarship program. The fields covered include automotive technology, early childhood education, welding, HVAC, plumbing, culinary arts, business administration, and controlled environment agriculture. These programs are designed to equip students with skills that apply across multiple industries, increasing their job prospects and the region's workforce capabilities.
Funding and Scholarship Details
The workforce development initiative received $250,000 in funding over the past year. This funding—granted to both SFCC and the City of Santa Fe through ARPA—was used primarily for student scholarships and the hiring of a workforce coordinator. The workforce coordinator works closely with local businesses, economic development partners, and the college to connect employers with students and to market available training opportunities.
Collaboration with Local Employers and Economic Development
Johanna Nelson, Economic Development Director for the City of Santa Fe, emphasized the importance of collaboration in the initiative. "We are hopeful that this is the beginning of a really great sustained initiative and partnership with Santa Fe Community College," Nelson said. Part of the program's strategy is to make employers aware of the training available at SFCC and to maintain a channel of communication between employers and the college, ensuring that educational programs align with workforce needs.
Job Certifications with Cross-Industry Applications
Through dialogue with local employers and SFCC leadership, the city identified approximately 13 certifications with cross-industry relevance. Students who earn certifications in areas like automotive technology or controlled environment agriculture gain versatile skills, opening doors to various career paths. This approach supports both employer needs and student career goals in the Santa Fe area.
Future Funding and Sustainability
The City of Santa Fe has secured additional funding—about $200,000 from the city council—to continue the workforce development initiative into 2027 and potentially beyond. The future funding will draw from one-time excess revenues identified in the city budget two years ago. This ongoing investment aims to sustain the partnership between SFCC, local employers, and the city's economic development efforts.
Source: krqe.com.
