Job certifications earned by 50 incarcerated people
Fifty incarcerated California Prison Industry Authority (CALPIA) graduates received industry accredited job certifications at Pelican Bay State Prison (PBSP) on Nov. 8.
Graduates took part in the CALPIA job training programs. They received certifications in Computer Coding, Computer-Aided Design (AutoCAD), Commercial Laundry and Healthcare Facilities Maintenance.
“It is a pleasure to be here today and say congratulations to you in person,” said CALPIA General Manager Bill Davidson. “You have come so far and are making good decisions that can help you find meaningful employment when you leave. We want you to be the next success story.”
Along with CALPIA, the job-training programs are made possible through partnerships with CDCR, San Francisco non-profit The Last Mile (TLM), and Autodesk Training Center.
Acting Warden Stephen Smith also recognized the graduates.
“These programs provide skills that will assist you in obtaining job opportunities in your communities,” said Smith. “I hope you also have participated in other programs and self-help groups at Pelican Bay. All are beneficial, but the number one thing that makes it all work is your determination to follow through.”
Kevin Kelly, a former CALPIA graduate, now works for The Last Mile as the Community and Volunteer Manager. He says the skills he learned in the coding program continue to help him with his career.
“CALPIA and The Last Mile have bestowed upon us an incredible opportunity to transform our lives. But let me emphasize the most significant thanks should go to each one of you,” added Kelly. “You have chosen the path of self-improvement and opting to be the best version of yourself. And that is not an easy choice. But it is a powerful one.”
Family and staff cheered on the graduates as they received their certifications.
CALPIA programs reduce recidivism and enhance prison and public safety by providing incarcerated individuals with life-changing job training opportunities for successful reentry. According to a recent University of California, Irvine study, by three years after release, only 15% of CALPIA participants had been returned to custody with 85% staying out of prison.
Written by Stephanie Eres
California Prison Industry Authority
