Rep. Gabe Vasquez Doubles Down on Support for Energy Workers and Economic Development in Southeastern New Mexico
CARLSBAD, N.M. – This week, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (N.M.-02) hosted a series of events across southeastern New Mexico, emphasizing his commitment to supporting energy workers and fostering economic growth in the region.
This week, Congressman Vasquez hosted a roundtable on Tuesday evening in Carlsbad with energy workers, their families and community members. Rep. Vasquez discussed access to adult education and workforce training for energy workers at places such as the Southeast New Mexico College. Vasquez also re-emphasized his commitment to ensuring New Mexico’s energy workers and their families receive the health care and compensation they deserve. This event underscored his dedication to the hardworking individuals who are vital to building and sustaining New Mexico's economy.
Photo by the Southeast New Mexico College
“I will always support the jobs and health of energy workers and the communities that drive the energy economy in New Mexico over the corporate CEOs who rake in millions and don’t even live in our state,” said Vasquez. “Meeting with Somos Un Pueblo Unido and hearing how the Southeast New Mexico College is providing job training opportunities to keep families in their communities like Carlsbad and Hobbs is how we come together to find ways to support our workers.”
Last year, Congressman Vasquez introduced the Energy Workers Health Improvement And Compensation Fund Act to prioritize the health care of energy workers, holding accountable polluters and wealthy, out-of-state oil executives, during an event with Somos Un Pueblo Unido.
“New Mexico has the potential to become a more inclusive state that recognizes the value of a diverse workforce and how immigrants play a crucial role in our economy,” said Marcela Díaz, Executive Director of Somos Un Pueblo Unido. "We can create a stronger and more prosperous state and shape the future of working families by working together to strengthen the workforce development system by providing more ESL, high school equivalency, integrated education training, and industry sector training programs for ‘difficult to reach’ workers, as well as more support services for those who want to enroll in these programs.”
This week, Rep. Vasquez hosted a roundtable with members of the Hispano Chamber of Commerce in Hobbs. The discussion focused on workforce and economic development in the heart of Oil & Gas Country, addressing the needs and opportunities for local businesses and workers.
Rep. Vasquez also visited Carlsbad Caverns National Park to celebrate its 100th anniversary. During his visit, he emphasized the park’s significance to New Mexico's natural heritage and its role in boosting local tourism and the economy.
Rep. Gabe Vasquez delivers a Congressional Record honoring the 100th anniversary of Carlsbad Caverns.
Later that day, Rep. Vasquez met with local Girl Scouts in Carlsbad, helping them earn their Democracy badge and providing insights into the functions of Congress. The “Congress 101” event aimed to inspire young leaders and encourage civic engagement among the youth.
Rep. Vasquez’s visit to southeastern New Mexico reflects his ongoing efforts to address the needs of his constituents and promote economic development across the state.
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