Tarian Abmadov, Director of the New Office for New Americans  for the State of Maine Begins Next Month.

Governor Janet T. Mills (D) announced today that she has appointed Tarian Ahmadov, a seasoned workforce development leader and former state refugee coordinator, as the first Director of the Maine Office of New Americans (ONA)/

Ahmadov has more than 20 years of experience in employment, immigrtion, refugee, health and social services.  He currently oversees statewide employment programs at the Maine Department of Labor.  He will begin his new role at ONA, a division of the Governor’s office of Policy Innovation and the Future (GOPIF), on January 21, 2025.

The Office of New Americans, approved by the Legislature, is charged with making Maine a home of opportunity for all strengthening Maine’s workforce, enhancing the vibrancy of Maine’s communities, and building a strong economy.  With unemployment at record lows and economic growth among the best in the nation, Maine faces a shortage of workers across regions, professions and skill levels, especially in critical sectors such as health care, education and construction.

Improving how Maine connects New Americans to employers is among several key strategies to addressing the state’s workforce needs.

“Tarian Ahmedov’s deep experience helping New Mainers adjust, step into jobs and contribute to our state has prepared him well to lead the office of New Aericans,” said Governor Janet Mills.  “Tarian;s leadership will ensure that our workforce and economy can fujlly benefit from the valuable skills, knowledge and work ethics of New Americans who make their home in Maine”

“I am honored to lead Maine’s Office of New Americans and grateful to Governor Mlls for the opportunity to advance its mission,” said Tarian Abmadov. “In this role, I will strengthen workforce integration, support immigrant entrepreneurs, and foster welcomng commuities across the state.”