By Emmanuel T. Erediano
[email protected]
Variety News Staff
THE Northern Marianas Technical Institute, Northern Marianas College, the Public School System, and the Workforce Investment Agency have made measurable strides in building the local workforce, according to the CNMI Department of Labor.
In an email interview earlier this week, CNMI DOL Employment Services Director Eugene Tebuteb said these entities, which are eligible to receive federal funds collected from CNMI-Only Transitional Worker or CW visa applicants, “have made measurable strides in preparing and placing residents into the local workforce.”
Tebuteb said CNMI DOL does not currently have individual testimonials from participants in CW-funded vocational training programs, but employment placement data tell an encouraging story. The training programs have helped local residents gain industry-relevant skills and credentials, translating into increased employability and job placements across key industries.
“Data shows that CW-funded training continues to be an effective tool in strengthening the local workforce pipeline, even as we work toward capturing more individual success stories,” Tebuteb said.
CNMI Labor Secretary Leila F. Staffler said Northern Marianas College graduated an average of 100 U.S.-eligible workers per year from high-demand fields such as healthcare, early childhood development, and business administration, with an overall 63% job placement rate across programs. The early childhood development program achieved 100% job placement for three consecutive years, supporting a sector heavily reliant on CWs.
NMTech trained an average of 100 to 150 participants annually, awarded more than 70 technical credentials each year, partnered with over 25 local employers, and achieved a 30% job placement rate within six months of program completion in FY2025.
Based on a report following the 2024 tax year, the ratio of U.S. workers to foreign workers, including CW workers, is 77:36, reflecting a CNMI labor force composed of approximately 68% U.S.-eligible workers and 32% other workers.
On Feb. 6, 2026, CNMI DOL will host Job Fair 2026 at the Crowne Plaza Resort’s Hibiscus Hall from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Themed “Start a New Career This New Year,” the event is expected to draw 35 business organizations hiring for more than 100 positions.
Staffler said employers plan to hire locals for accounting, online gaming operations, food service, construction, hospitality, maintenance, and healthcare, which are currently in high demand. She urged applicants to come prepared and ready to showcase their skills. Those without skills were encouraged to consider training programs at NMTech or NMC, or certifications offered by Island Training Solutions.
“Don’t wait for an employer to call you. Call them and follow up as frequently as it takes to get an answer,” Staffler said. She also advised job seekers to ensure their contact information is correct and up to date.
Tebuteb said attendees can expect a well-organized, employer-driven event designed to create real hiring connections. “Job seekers will be able to speak directly with employers, learn about current job openings, and explore training and upskilling opportunities,” he said, adding that Labor staff will provide guidance on employment services, résumé preparation, and workforce programs.
He stressed the importance of preparation: bring multiple copies of résumés, dress professionally, and be ready to discuss skills, experience, and career goals. Tebuteb also encouraged job seekers to visit multiple employers, ask questions, follow up after the event, and remain open to entry-level or training positions that could lead to long-term careers.
Success for the job fair, he said, will be measured not just by attendance but by employer engagement, interviews, job offers, and placements. CNMI Labor will continue to provide support through employment counseling, referrals, and training programs and will follow up with employers to identify hiring needs.
“There are real opportunities available for CNMI residents who are ready to work, learn, and grow. Employers are looking for dependable local talent, and the Department of Labor is committed to supporting residents through training, job matching, and career development,” Tebuteb said.
“This job fair is a reminder that investing in our local workforce strengthens our economy and our community, and we encourage everyone to take advantage of the resources available to them,” he added.
Emmanuel “Arnold” Erediano has a bachelor of science degree in Journalism. He started his career as police beat reporter. Loves to cook. Eats death threats for breakfast.
