Alfonso "Al" Otero was appointed Special Assistant to the Director at New Mexico Workers' Compensation Administration in January 2003.
Mr. Otero studied Business Administration and Psychology at the University of New Mexico and at the University of Albuquerque. He served six years as an elected State Representative from Bernalillo County in the NM Legislature (1983-88), and was Chairman of the Consumer and Public Affairs Committee. He also served in committees of Children and Youth, Business and Industry, and Judiciary. During his tenure in the legislature, he was the original sponsor in creating The Hispanic Cultural Center in Albuquerque and the creation of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. state holiday. He also carried legislation which renewed the infrastructure in his district and for the people of New Mexico. Mr. Otero is now serving a two year term as Board member of the Los Cerritos Homeowners Association in Valencia County.
Prior to his appointment with the WCA, Mr. Otero previously worked at the University Mental Health Hospital, as a Psychiatric Case Manager for 9 years. His public relations career included, the appointment as General Manager/Program Director/Radio Broadcaster for KABQ radio station in Albuquerque for several years. He was also employed as a Security Inspector (Q clearance) for Sandia National Laboratories (1980-85). As a small businessman, he also owned and operated a fast food restaurant in Albuquerque.
Mr. Otero now heads the Workers' Compensation Administration's
Public Education & Outreach program, acts as the agency's legislative liaison, responds to constituent inquiries, and oversees the agency's website. Mr Otero's other administrative duties vary depending on the Director's priorities.
