The California Prison Industry Authority (CALPIA), in partnership with CDCR, recognized 56 incarcerated individuals with accredited job certifications and/or apprenticeships at the California Men’s Colony (CMC).
CDCR’s Undersecretary of Operations Jeff Macomber congratulated graduates.
“It is through your hard work, perseverance, and dedication, you have earned this special recognition,” said Undersecretary Macomber. “Despite what brought you to prison today, if you can learn skills you never knew you had, that opens the door to hope and opportunity for your future.”
In early October, 39 of the graduates received Apprenticeship completion certificates through a partnership with the California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR).
CALPIA became a Registered Apprenticeship Partner with DIR’s Division of Apprenticeship Standards which represents an impressive partnership among industry, labor, education, and government leaders.
Incarcerated individuals obtain workplace knowledge, skills, and industry-recognized credentials through the apprenticeship training. CALPIA’s registered apprenticeship program provides on-the-job training and job-related technical instruction.
Post-release employment chances greatly increase
The journey-level certification qualifies graduates for meaningful employment once released.
“Each of you should truly have a great sense of pride and respect for yourselves,” said CALPIA’s General Manager Bill Davidson. “The skills, attributes, and characteristics you’ve developed through CALPIA will help you succeed. We want you to be an example of good in your communities.”
CALPIA programs reduce recidivism and enhance prison and public safety by providing incarcerated individuals with life-changing training opportunities for successful re-entry into the community.
Warden Danny Samuel talked about the benefits of programming and education opportunities at CMC.
“This is a great milestone that you have completed,” said Warden Samuel. “Keep this momentum going. Take advantage of all the programming opportunities available to you. Take pride in all your decisions and take ownership in your lives.”
A former CALPIA graduate and success story, Timothy Jackson spoke at the graduation ceremony.
“I always said I am never coming back to prison,” said Jackson. “Well, here I am back in prison and on the other side encouraging you guys today, what an honor.”
Jackson is the CEO and Founder of Quality Touch Cleaning Systems in Southern California that services bio-tech companies, law firms, and other businesses. He learned his job skills while incarcerated and worked for CALPIA’s Healthcare Facilities Maintenance (HFM) program.
“I took full advantage of the opportunity that the CALPIA HFM program provided. You too can own your own company and hire formerly incarcerated,” added Jackson. “Be the CEOs of your lives and empower your perspective.”
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