JAG-NM Youth Shine at the 2026 Career Development Conference

Jobs for America’s Graduates – New Mexico (JAG-NM) proudly welcomed youth from across the state to the 2026 Career Development Conference (CDC) for a day centered on leadership, competition, career exploration, and connection.

The Career Development Conference is one of JAG-NM’s signature annual events, bringing students and participants together to demonstrate the skills they have been building through the program. From communication and teamwork to professionalism and problem-solving, CDC gives youth the opportunity to apply what they have learned in a real-world setting while connecting with peers, educators, employers, and community leaders from across New Mexico.

This year’s conference was also honored to welcome Senator Shannon Pinto and Senator Harold Pope Jr., who spoke with youth and shared words of encouragement as they continue building their futures. Their presence reinforced the importance of investing in young people and recognizing their potential as leaders in their schools, workplaces, and communities.

In addition to competitions and leadership activities, youth had the opportunity to connect directly with employers and partners. Businesses from a range of industries helped make the day meaningful by engaging with youth through career conversations, mock interviews, and even real job interviews. These experiences gave students and participants the chance to practice professional communication, build confidence, and better understand what readiness for employment looks like in action.

A key part of the conference was also the election and recognition of youth leadership through the New Mexico Career Association. Delegates selected at CDC will have the opportunity to vote on behalf of the New Mexico Career Association at National Career Association meetings, helping ensure youth voice from New Mexico is represented at the national level.

The 2026 Career Development Conference reflected the strength, talent, and potential of JAG-NM youth across the state. We are grateful to the employers, volunteers, legislators, staff, and partners who helped make the event possible, and we celebrate every student and participant who showed up ready to learn, lead, compete, and grow.

CDC 2026 was a strong reminder of what is possible when youth are given meaningful opportunities to build skills, explore pathways, and connect with people who believe in their future.