The Office of New Americans (ONA) was created in the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions to help immigrants and refugees in the state achieve their full workforce potential. The ONA also works to support employers with training and resources on employing the state’s new Americans.

New Americans refers to anyone who was born abroad and now makes their home in the U.S., including individuals who have since become naturalized U.S. citizens.

Training:

The Office of New Americans conducts regular trainings for employers and workers on the latest federal immigration policy changes. 

• Immigration Changes and Your Business: What You Need to Know hosted by the Office of New Americans with Olsi Vrapi from Vrapi Weeks – Immigration Lawyers

Research with Residents in the San Juan and Permian Basin

Research conducted by the UNM Center for Social Policy on behalf of DWS and ONA to better understand the background, needs, and career aspirations of workers in the northwest and southeast corners of New Mexico. Key findings include:

• 64% of respondents 18-34 years old are interested in switching to or growing in a career in healthcare.
• 54% believe they and their community will benefit from an Office of New Americans.
• 55% of respondents are interested in upskilling in the next 2 years, including through apprenticeships and job-specific credentials.

Additional data on New Mexico's new American population:

Data and Economic Research:

• U.S. -and Foreign-born Population in New Mexico: 2024 by NMDWS Economic Research & Analysis Bureau
• Map The Impact: New Mexico by the American Immigration Council
• State Immigration Data Profiles: New Mexico by the Migration Policy Institute