NMDWS News:
ALBUQUERQUE — Lieutenant Governor Howie Morales will serve as keynote speaker on Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2025, at the second annual Disability Employment Awareness Month Conference and Hiring Event in Albuquerque, hosted by a coalition of state agencies and organizations supporting New Mexicans with disabilities.
“Disability should never be a barrier to opportunity for employment,” Lt. Governor Howie Morales said. “During Disability Awareness Month, we are reminded of the importance of building inclusive workplaces, expanding access, and ensuring that every New Mexican has the chance to contribute their talents to their community and to the state’s economy.”
The conference will bring together individuals, employers, and community leaders to promote employment opportunities for persons with disabilities. It also provides a unique platform for employers to connect with potential candidates, share resources, and learn about the benefits of hiring and supporting employees with disabilities.
“People with disabilities add value and talent to every workplace and community, and we are committed to increasing access and opportunities to all,” says Lisa McNiven, Deputy Director of the New Mexico Governor’s Commission on Disability.
The free conference will be held from 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m. at the Berna Facio Professional Development Center, 3315 Louisiana Blvd. NE, followed by lunch and a hiring event until 4 p.m. Registration to attend is available at https://bit.ly/4fEd7SM.
Part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, the event aims to celebrate the contributions of workers with disabilities and emphasize the importance of fostering inclusive workplaces.
Conference highlights include:
- Proclamation: Klarissa Peña, Vice President of the Albuquerque City Council, presents the city’s Disability Employment Awareness proclamation.
- Awards Ceremony: Businesses and non-profit organizations that prioritize diversity and inclusion in their workforce are recognized for their leadership.
- Disability Rights New Mexico Presentation: Sharing information regarding accommodations in hiring and on the job.
- Panel Discussion: “A Day in the Life” of workers with disabilities, job coaches, and employers.
- Hiring Event: Employers from various industries will meet with job seekers and recruit talented individuals with disabilities.
Participating New Mexico agencies and organizations include the Governor’s Commission on Disability, Department of Workforce Solutions, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, Commission for the Blind, Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Department of Veteran Services, Developmental Disability Supports Division, Healthcare Authority, Developmental Disabilities Council, Disability Pride New Mexico, UNM Center for Development and Disability, Disability Rights New Mexico, Independent Living Resource Center, Horizons of New Mexico, and Accessible New Mexico.