The Basic Correctional Officer Academy (BCOA) recognized 181 graduating cadets as they joined the ranks of California’s correctional officers. The August 19 ceremony welcomed them into CDCR with Wasco State Prison Warden Heather Shirley delivering the keynote address.
The 13-week academy is held at the Richard A. McGee Correctional Training Center in Galt. The academy instills pride, discipline, respect and teamwork in the cadets.
The BCOA prepares cadets for situations they could experience as correctional peace officers. The all-inclusive training includes physical fitness, arrest and control, communication and de-escalation techniques, firearms/chemical agents, and more.
CDCR continues to hire correctional officers for positions statewide. Interested applicants can apply online at JoinCDCR.com. To learn more about the correctional officer selection process, watch this video.
Story and photos by Lisa Hamrick
Additional photos by Sgt. H. Berberena
Richard A. McGee Correctional Training Center
