It was a day full of music and celebration as 52 incarcerated individuals received their industry accredited job certifications at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center.
The graduates are part of the California Prison Industry Authority (CALPIA) job training programs preparing individuals for meaningful employment when returning to their communities.
“I hope you leave this building today with a great sense of pride and accomplishment for what you have done, for what your colleagues have done, and just the success that you have achieved,” said CALPIA’s General Manager Bill Davidson. “View the jobs you have here at CALPIA as a career. Not just something that you are here to pass some time at San Quentin. Your career is starting here and now. It will be the basis and foundation as you leave this prison and return to your community and go home.”
Graduates earned certifications in Computer Coding and Digital Audio Production in which CALPIA partners with non-profit The Last Mile. Eight graduates were honored for completing the Pre-Apprentice Construction Labor program in which CALPIA partners with the Northern California Laborers Union.
‘Continue to display personal growth’
“Your hard work and dedication in completing these intensive programs speaks volumes about your commitment to change,” said Acting Chief Deputy Warden Nicole Avila. “My wish is that you continue to display personal growth and development to increase your confidence to strive for improvements.”
Prison Industry Board Member Eddy Zheng, who was formerly incarcerated and now serves on the Board, shared words of encouragement.
“As I look at all of you, who invested your time to the single mindedness of purpose which is freedom. I see you (and) appreciate you,” added Zheng. “I want to encourage you to invest in collective learning.”
From the first computer coding class to today
Keynote Speaker Chris Schuhmacher also inspired the graduates. He graduated from the first graduating CALPIA and TLM computer coding class at San Quentin 10 years ago. Schuhmacher served 17 years.
“Be proud of making the decision to break free from prison stereotypes. (You are) preparing yourselves for a promising career in tech,” said Schuhmacher. “The journey hasn’t been easy and requires hard work, drive, and ambition. All these qualities which you have proven by making it here today.”
Schuhmacher shared his story of success working as a software engineer for Bay Area companies Fandom and now Checkr.
“It absolutely blows me away to see how this program that started with 18 students to expanding into 15 men’s and women’s facilities across seven states,” added Schuhmacher. “It is my sincere belief that graduates here today will have the opportunity to replicate the success and climb even higher. It’s very easy for me to say that being a part of The Last Mile has changed the trajectory of my life. Thank you to CALPIA and CDCR for supporting The Last Mile and for your commitment to progressive change in criminal justice systems.”
By Michele Kane, CALPIA Assistant General Manager, External Affairs
CALPIA graduation in photos
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