19 paroled people, 19 Conservation Corps members graduate
The Ventura Training Center celebrated 19 formerly incarcerated firefighters and 19 California Conservation Corps members as they officially completed enhanced firefighter training.
Families, friends, staff, and firefighters kicked off the holiday weekend with the Dec. 22 celebration.
The graduation was attended by CDCR, CAL FIRE, and California Conservation Corps (CCC) executives.
Division of Adult Parole Operations Director Jason Johnson also spoke during the graduation.
“I explained to the graduates that it was their work ethic, discipline, teamwork, and commitment to the Ventura Training Center program that keeps the program going strong for future participants,” said Director Johnson. “I believe the skills gained by the participants at the training center not only has prepared them for their career endeavors but has also equipped them with life skills to be productive citizens in their community.”
What is the Ventura Training Center?
The Ventura Training Center was established in October 2018 by CDCR, CAL FIRE, and CCC in partnership with the Anti-Recidivism Coalition. The Ventura center offers advanced training to parolees who participated at fire camps or institutional firehouses. Portions of the advanced firefighter training program are also open to CCC members. This is the eighth class to graduate since the program was created.
Since 2018, over 150 paroled people have completed training at the center. More than half of those graduates are now employed full-time with state, local, and federal firefighting agencies.
When positions open again for the 2024 fire season in March, this new group of graduates will be among some of the most qualified applicants for the job.
Additionally, AB 2147 allows former non-violent incarcerated people who participated in a CDCR conservation camp crew to have their records expunged.
This removes barriers, such as the ability to achieve their EMT certification, so they can seek jobs as firefighters in the community.
More information about AB2147 can be found on the Expedited Expungement for Former Fire Crew Members webpage.
The next group of Ventura Training Center firefighter trainees will graduate in March 2024. More information about the program can be found on the Ventura Training Center website.
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