United Education Institute Expands to Albuquerque with New Campus
United Education Institute (UEI), a national leader in career-focused education, has announced the opening of its newest campus in Albuquerque. Located at 885 Sunset Rd SW, the new campus offers a range of hands-on training programs designed to prepare students for successful careers in high-demand fields, including healthcare and skilled trades. UEI is now accepting applicants for new students to start on April 28th.
“We are thrilled to expand our presence to New Mexico and bring expanded access to career-focused education to the Albuquerque community,” said Mark Lucero, Campus President of UEI Albuquerque. “With over 40 years of experience in providing quality career training, UEI is dedicated to empowering individuals with the skills they need to thrive in the workforce and contribute to the economic vitality of local communities. If you are an employer looking to hire skilled workers, we invite you to talk with us about your needs.”
UEI is an accredited institution that offers a range of vocational and skilled trade programs to help students earn a diploma and get started in a new career in as few as 10 months. In addition to career-focused education, UEI Albuquerque will provide students with extensive support services, including career advising and job placement assistance.
Initial programs being offered at the UEI in Albuquerque include Medical Assistant, Medical Billing and Insurance Coding, Dental Assistant, Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Technician, and Electrician Technician. The new 47,000 square-foot campus features medical assistant labs, dental assistant labs, electrician technician labs, HVAC labs, classrooms, computer labs, a Learning Resource Center, and student and faculty lounges.
“The hands-on learning labs at UEI are modern, well-equipped spaces designed to give students a practical, immersive experience in their chosen fields. Each lab is furnished with industry-standard tools and technology, providing an environment that mirrors real-world workplaces,” Lucero said. “Students can practice their skills on industry-relevant equipment under the guidance of experienced instructors, who offer both technical knowledge and personal insights from the field. This interactive setting allows students to build confidence and competence, fostering a seamless transition from classroom learning to professional application after they graduate.”
“UEI’s expansion into New Mexico reflects the growing trend of more young people considering vocational and career training over a tradition 4-year college degree because of the soaring costs of traditional higher education,” Lucero said. “UEI is a viable option for students who are not able to put their lives on hold for years while they attend college.”
NPR and the Washington Post have dubbed young Americans following this trend as “the toolbelt generation” with more and more high school graduates turning to careers in the skilled trades, such as the electrician technician and HVAC technician programs offered at UEI.
The demand for trained electrician and HVAC technicians in the greater Albuquerque area is projected to remain strong and continue to grow, largely fueled by a steady expansion in the construction and renewable energy sectors, as well as by consistent needs for maintenance and upgrades of existing infrastructure in both residential and commercial settings.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that between 2024 and 2028, industry growth for electricians in New Mexico is expected to average around 3.1% annually, with a focus on meeting demand driven by new housing projects, an increase in electric vehicle infrastructure, and advancements in solar and other green energy installations. According to BLS data, New Mexico as a whole is expected to see a 4.5% annual growth in HVAC jobs by 2030.
The demand for medical and dental assistants in the greater Albuquerque area is also projected to grow significantly over the next decade. BLS forecasts a nationwide job growth of 15% for medical assistants by 2033, which is significantly faster than the average for other occupations. Similarly, BLS projects the demand for trained dental assistants to continue to grow 8% by 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.
“At UEI, students can expect a nurturing environment focused on their personal and professional growth, with a team of faculty and staff dedicated to helping them succeed,” Lucero said.
Enrollment is now open, and prospective students can visit the UEI Albuquerque campus to learn more about available programs, financial aid options for those who qualify, and career services designed to support graduates in their job search.
