Region III‑ Bakersfield Area

Region III encompasses institutions located in the Bakersfield area of California. This region focuses on ensuring secure facility operations, providing effective healthcare, and delivering rehabilitative programs to support incarcerated individuals. Region III institutions aim to create environments that promote safety, rehabilitation, and successful reintegration into society. 

Area of Responsibility 

Region III is responsible for the management and support of the following institutions: 

• California State Prison, Corcoran (COR) 

• Substance Abuse Treatment Facility and State Prison, Corcoran (SATF) 

• Avenal State Prison (ASP) 

• California Men’s Colony (CMC) 

• Kern Valley State Prison (KVSP) 

• North Kern State Prison (NKSP) 

• Pleasant Valley State Prison (PVSP) 

• Wasco State Prison (WSP) 

These institutions collaborate to maintain safety, security, and operational efficiency while offering evidence-based rehabilitative programs and comprehensive healthcare services. 

Collaborative Approach 

Region III leverages the combined expertise of three divisions to meet its goals: 

• Division of Adult Institutions (DAI): Manages secure and efficient operations of correctional facilities. 

• California Correctional Health Care Services (CCHCS): Provides medical, mental health, and dental care to incarcerated individuals. 

• Division of Rehabilitative Programs (DRP): Offers education, vocational training, and rehabilitative programming to reduce recidivism. 

This collaboration allows Region III to: 

• Address the unique needs of its incarcerated population effectively. 

• Streamline leadership oversight to ensure consistent program delivery and decision-making. 

• Provide comprehensive healthcare and rehabilitation services to enhance outcomes. 

Leadership Team 

Region III’s leadership team works collaboratively to ensure operational success and quality program delivery across all institutions. 

Regional Leadership (Last updated Feb. 2025)  

• DAI Associate Director: Tammy Campbell (A) 

• CCHCS Regional Health Care Chief Executive Officer: Michael Whittaker 

• DRP Regional Assistant Superintendent: Troy Tenhet 

This leadership team is dedicated to enhancing institutional performance, ensuring the delivery of rehabilitative programs, and addressing challenges efficiently. 

Programs and Initiatives 

Region III emphasizes rehabilitation, healthcare, and education through the following programs and services: 

• Substance Abuse Treatment Programs: Evidence-based programs designed to address addiction and prepare individuals for successful reentry. 

• Educational Opportunities: GED preparation, vocational training, and college courses that equip individuals with skills for post-incarceration success. 

• Healthcare Excellence: Comprehensive physical, mental, and dental care provided by CCHCS to ensure the well-being of incarcerated individuals. 

• Rehabilitation and Reintegration Support: Programs addressing cognitive-behavioral challenges, interpersonal skills, and career readiness to reduce recidivism.