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Photo of CNM's Electriv Vehicle Program cohort
From left to right: Aaron Hewitt, Zachary Pino, Adam Hewitt, Miguel Reyes, Michael Endito, Gael Juarez, and Alexis Amancio

CNM’s First Electric Vehicle Technology Cohort Graduates with Over 100 Industry Certifications

Each graduate is leaving the program with their Electric Vehicle Technology certification from CNM along with certifications in fusion safety, air conditioning systems, and more
April 22, 2025

CNM’s School of Skilled Trades & Arts is excited to announce that the first cohort from the Electric Vehicle Technology program will graduate this May. The program, which is the only one in New Mexico, teaches students the fundamental skills needed to work on electric, plug-in hybrid electric (PHEVs), and hybrid vehicles (HEVs). The program also covers OSHA regulations, personal protective equipment, and other important safety knowledge.

The first cohort has six graduates, all of whom completed the two-term certificate. In addition to their coursework, each student is graduating with over a dozen industry certifications that will give them a leg up when entering the workforce. These certifications include:

  • Fusion safety certification
  • ASE xEV certification (Phase 1 & 2)
  • Snap-on/NC3 certification
  • Ford Motor Company certifications through the Accelerated Career Experience program
  • EPA 609 certification

Next, several students plan to continue their automotive technology training or head into the workforce. For those staying in school, their electric vehicle classes will transfer into both CNM’s Diesel Technology and Automotive Technology programs thanks to Curtis Garand, CNM electric vehicle instructor and Program Director of Transportation Technology. As a result, Electric Vehicle students are now able to waive the following courses: AUTC 1110, 1140, 1240, and 2111, as well as DETC 1110, 1150, and 1230.

We caught up with some of the students and asked them about the program and their plans for the future.

“I loved how our instructor Curtis Garand always pushed us to do better and never give up. My plan is to take what I’ve learned and use it to grow in my role at my dad’s body shop.” Gael Juarez

“I really enjoyed the program, and my favorite part was building relationships with my classmates and instructor. Now that I’ve completed the EV program, I want to study automotive technology and welding.” Michael Endito

“I loved that we built an electric vehicle from the ground up. It was so awesome to see how each part came together to make a fully functional vehicle.” Miguel Reyes

“My favorite part of the program was being able to pull the transmissions out of the vehicles and work on them. It was hard, but really fun and engaging. Now that I have my electric vehicle certificate I want to keep pursuing my education in diesel mechanics.” Aaron Hewitt

“We learned so much in the program that was interesting to me, and it was great to learn multiple methods to complete the same task.” Zachary Pino

“I had a great time learning about the convertors, and my ultimate goal is to work at a big dealership.” Adam Hewitt

“This program is very hands-on, which was the perfect fit for me. I plan to get my associate’s degree in automotive technology and hope to work at a dealership in the future.” Alexis Amancio

Interested in completing the Elective Vehicle Technology program? The next cohort starts during the Fall 2025 Term! Registration for the program will open in late summer.