Through rehabilitative programs, Morales earns state firefighter job
When Jose Morales began serving a sentence in 2016, he discovered firefighting and the Firefighter Training and Reentry Program (FTRP).
In 2017, Morales accepted an inmate firefighter position at Pleasant Valley State Prison (PVSP). He and the rest of the prison fire crew assisted in fighting structural and vegetation fires as well as vehicle accidents in the area around PVSP.
In April 2019, Morales paroled from PVSP but continued with the FTRP at the Ventura Training Center. Morales said FTRP gave him an opportunity to better his life and continue his fighting fires.
After his parole term, Morales continued his education, earning several certificates of achievements from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. He also continued his efforts to become a professional firefighter.
In October 2019, Morales earned the California Department of Forestry & Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) Certificate of Training after completing 219-hours of Basic Firefighter training.
Formerly incarcerated firefighter joins CAL FIRE team
In December 2019, Morales earned his high school diploma. Through hard work, education, and opportunity offered by FTRP, Morales landed a job with CAL FIRE’s Mendocino Unit Hand Crew. There, he’s assigned to the Hopland station.
Morales has battled the Gold Fire in Lassen County and various Hopland local area fires. Recently, he was battling the Oak Fire located in Mendocino County.
The PVSP Firehouse has invited him back as a guest speaker to motivate current incarcerated firefighters. He discusses opportunities and describes life changes they can achieve.
“I’m proud of Morales’ accomplishments,” said PVSP Fire Chief Art Munoz.
Seeing his dedication to becoming a firefighter, Munoz recommended him for the Ventura Training Center. He even attended the graduation.
By Lt. Alex Avila, Pleasant Valley State Prison