California Correctional Training and Rehabilitation Authority, Rehabilitation

CTF sees 123 earn certifications, apprenticeships

April 15, 2024

From left are CALPIA Chief Assistant General Manager Suzie Changus, CALPIA General Manager Bill Davidson, graduate Demarie Mackey, guest speaker Timothy Jackson, and Assistant General Manager of Operations Nicole Collins.

Former CALPIA graduate returns to prison, shares success story

SOLEDAD – In front of family and friends, 123 incarcerated individuals at the Correctional Training Facility (CTF) received their apprenticeships and industry accredited job certifications at a graduation held by the California Prison Industry Authority (CALPIA).

“Congratulations. We are recognizing you for your achievements today,” said CALPIA’s General Manager Bill Davidson. “We are proud of your commitment, dedication, and demonstrated work ethic in our programs, which prepare you for a meaningful career when you return home.”

Various job training programs were highlighted, some graduates earned apprenticeships as maintenance mechanics, machine operators, upholsterers, and stock clerks.

Formerly incarcerated CALPIA graduate Timothy Jackson shared his story of success. Jackson is the founder and CEO of Quality Touch Cleaning Systems. Jackson said he learned his job skills in prison through CALPIA’s Healthcare Facilities Maintenance program.

“It is a blessing to be here,” said Jackson. “I never could have imagined that this would be a reality for me.”

CALPIA job certifications at CTF

Jackson said he learned how to clean at a hospital level through the job training program and received all his certifications which helped him when he returned to his community in 2017.

Jackson, now happily married with a family, talked candidly with the graduates about overcoming life’s struggles.

“You have to have the right mindset, set goals for yourself,” added Jackson. “CALPIA stands for changed lives. When you collaborate with this organization, no matter what your vocation is, you will integrate into the curriculum. They have hopes and expectations for you. I am a living hope of that. They want your life to be changed.”

A 2021 University of California, Irvine, study found CALPIA had lower rates of rearrests, re-convictions, and reincarcerations compared to those who were qualified to, but did not, participate in a CALPIA job training program. The study found three years after release, only 15% of CALPIA participants had been returned to custody meaning 85% are staying out of prison.