“New Mexico ranks 47th among states [and D.C.] in the number of 25 to 34 year olds with an associate’s degree or higher …”.
“[R]oughly 28.5 percent of New Mexicans aged 25 to 34 possess an associate’s degree or higher, which compares unfavorably to the national average — 41.6 percent.”
Only West Virginia, Nevada, Louisiana and Arkansas have a lower percentage. Massachusetts is the best state with 53.4%. The District of Columbia is 63.5%.
In some states, completing a construction apprenticeship gets you an associates degree. But not in NM. Also, I bet many students get certificates from CNM or other community colleges, but don’t stay to get an associates degree.