Work Experience Programs (Wex)

60 years of serving urban Native Americans and their communities.

Our Work Experience Program is located in Albuquerque, Gallup, and Farmington, New Mexico. We focus on improving job skills and education. As part of a local network that advocates for community services, we help people advance in their careers and support the growth of our communities. Our goal is to make education and work opportunities accessible to everyone, contributing to a better future for our community.

A woman in a red shirt is smiling with her arms crossed.
A group of people are standing around a table talking to each other.
A white background with a few lines on it

Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act

A US Department of Labor Employment and Training Program

Our program serves Native Americans across New Mexico. We offer job placement and classroom training that pays participants at minimum wage. We also offer case management and supportive services to eligible participants.

Benefits to Employers

When you hire through our Work Experience (WEX) program, you're getting the best of both worlds. We carefully pick and pre-screen candidates for you, saving you time and money right from the start. Plus, we take care of all the costs for part-time interns, making it easy for you to bring in fresh talent without the financial stress. And if you love the work they do and bring them on full-time, there's a tax credit waiting for you. It’s a win-win—easy, cost-effective hiring and the chance to boost your team with skilled, dedicated workers.

A black cube is floating in the air on a white background.
A black cube is floating in the air on a white background.
Pre-screened candidates

Candidates are screened and have completed basic skills and aptitude testing.

A black cube is floating in the air on a white background.
A black cube is floating in the air on a white background.
NIYC Assists with
hiring cost

We can assist with the cost of drug screens and background tests.

A black cube is floating in the air on a white background.
A black cube is floating in the air on a white background.
direct offset to labor costs

Labor is paid 100% with WIOA funds + the cost of Workman's Comp for up to 12 weeks.

A black cube is floating in the air on a white background.
A black cube is floating in the air on a white background.
tax credit for
new hires

Anyone hired full time from our program comes with a tax credit.

Benefits to Interns

Joining our Work Experience (WEX) program opens the door to exciting opportunities tailored just for you. We match you with positions that fit your interests and skills, ensuring you're on the path you're passionate about. Our online workshops offer valuable life skills and job training, preparing you for success in the workplace. As an intern, you'll earn tax-free wages of $12 per hour, with the convenience of submitting your timesheets every two weeks. Plus, we're here to support you every step of the way, making sure you have everything you need to thrive in your role. It's a great way to learn, earn, and grow in your career.

A black cube is floating in the air on a white background.
A black cube is floating in the air on a white background.
Placement

Participants are placed in work environments based on their interest and skills.

A black cube is floating in the air on a white background.
A black cube is floating in the air on a white background.
Workshops

Learn life skills and complete work training in our online workshops.

A black cube is floating in the air on a white background.
A black cube is floating in the air on a white background.
earn wages

As an intern, you'll earn wages of $12 per hour.

A black cube is floating in the air on a white background.
A black cube is floating in the air on a white background.
program support

Job developers work with participants to get them the support they need to be successful.

Find a Program

Ready to jumpstart your career? Let us know you're interested by filling out the form below. We're excited to hear from you and get you started on a path that matches your goals. Let’s make it happen together.

Apply Now
A black feather is flying in the air on a white background.
Be Native American
A black circle with the number 18 and a plus sign inside of it.
18 Years and Older
Two stacks of coins on a white background.
Unemployed or Underemployed
What to Expect

Steps to Establishing a Work Experience Program

A woman wearing a red tank top and earrings is smiling
A woman in a denim jacket is holding a stack of books

Getting started with our Work Experience (WEX) program is simple and rewarding. Just reach out to us, and we’ll guide you through the process, from matching you with a position that suits your skills and interests to providing you with comprehensive support and training. It’s your first step towards gaining valuable work experience, earning while you learn, and paving the way for a successful career.

  • Program Introductions

    Introductions allows us to meet, learn about operations and to share program goals. 

  • Establish an Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)

    An MOU allows us to put into writing what our programs can do for each other. 

  • Identify Resources

    We will need job descriptions to begin screening candidates. A supervisor / mentor+Alternat must be identified and trainined. 

  • Complete a Worksite Agreement

    For each identified internship we will need a Worksite Agreement in place to begin candidate refferals, job placements, or candidate screening