Backed by The Encantado Foundation, HealthInno and CNM Ingenuity are launching a new training program to equip the next generation of technologists for in-demand roles in health data and health tech across New Mexico.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., Aug. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- HealthInno, a statewide consortium strengthening New Mexico's health tech and health sciences innovation ecosystem, has been awarded a $145,000 grant from The Encantado Foundation to launch a first-of-its-kind health technology workforce development program. The initiative will train and connect local talent to roles at the intersection of healthcare, data, and digital health—addressing critical gaps across the state's largest employment sector.
Developed by HealthInno and launched in partnership with CNM Ingenuity and New Mexico Community Trust, the bootcamp-style program delivers a health data-focused curriculum tailored for technologists, clinicians, and professionals looking to pivot or upskill into roles in health technology, informatics, and digital innovation. The first cohort will begin in early 2026, followed by internships and job placements with healthcare organizations across New Mexico.
"Healthcare is changing—and data and technology are at the heart of that transformation," said Stefany Goradia, who leads education and collaboration programs at HealthInno. "This grant allows us to create low-barrier onramps into the sector and address real workforce shortages—while helping the next generation think about what an equitable, innovative future can look like."
Unlike health IT programs focused on medical coding and compliance, this initiative emphasizes applied learning—introducing participants to tools and strategies for real-world challenges. Through hands-on projects in a 'sandbox' environment, learners will work with de-identified data to explore topics like population health management, electronic health record (EHR) systems, interoperability, and social determinants of health.
"Organizations in New Mexico need professionals with both technical and sector-specific knowledge," said Kyle Lee, CEO of CNM Ingenuity. "By combining CNM Ingenuity's proven and highly effective workforce training approach with HealthInno's healthcare expertise, we're going to equip more New Mexicans with the technology and data skills they need to access high-demand jobs in New Mexico's healthcare industry."
The initiative prioritizes learners from regions in Central and Northern New Mexico, where hospitals and clinics often struggle to recruit and retain technology-trained staff. With CNM Ingenuity's support, participants will receive scholarships, coaching, and placement assistance in collaboration with employers statewide.
"For many New Mexicans—especially in rural and minority communities—opportunity doesn't always reach them," said Angelica Maestas, founder of HealthInno and Director of New Mexico Partnerships at Builders VC. "This program is changing that by providing skills, mentorship, and pathways into meaningful, future-focused opportunities."
"We're thrilled to partner with HealthInno and its fiscal sponsor, New Mexico Community Trust, on this exciting opportunity to upskill early- to mid-career healthcare professionals in health-related IT operations," said Louis Jeantete, Executive Director at The Encantado Foundation.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, health information technology careers are growing much faster than average—with roles projected to grow by 16% through 2033. New Mexico's healthcare and social assistance sector is the state's largest employer, with nearly 150,000 workers and $8 billion in wages in 2023. Yet healthcare organizations in non-metro areas—serving roughly a third of the state's population—often face persistent workforce shortages. This makes targeted training initiatives like this one all the more essential.
The program reflects HealthInno's broader vision to establish healthcare as a key application area for New Mexico's science and technology growth agenda—leveraging the state's unique strengths and existing investments to position it as an emerging hub for health sciences and health technology innovation.
The Encantado Foundation grant will fund next spring's cohort, with outcomes to be evaluated and potential expansion into a recurring or national offering.
Healthcare employers interested in hiring program graduates or individuals seeking to apply can contact Stefany Goradia at [email protected].
About HealthInno
HealthInno is a statewide consortium established to grow New Mexico's health tech and health sciences sectors. Through workforce development, educational events, and a regional pilot network that helps industry partners identify and test promising solutions, HealthInno is strengthening the connections, talent, and infrastructure needed to position New Mexico as a hub for health innovation. Learn more at healthinno.io.
About CNM Ingenuity
CNM Ingenuity is a workforce development arm of Central New Mexico Community College. It develops innovative and accelerated workforce training programs to serve key workforce needs in areas like healthcare and technology to foster economic development and job creation in New Mexico. Learn more at cnmingenuity.org.
About The Encantado Foundation
The Encantado Foundation's mission is to stimulate the development of hire-ready candidates specifically in cybersecurity, application development and management, and IT operations roles. Learn more at theencantadofoundation.org.
Media Contact
Stefany Goradia, HealthInno, 1 5056810088, [email protected], https://healthinno.io
SOURCE HealthInno
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