The California Men’s Colony (CMC) recently celebrated a culinary arts graduation complete with a meal prepared by the incarcerated students.
This program is a collaboration between Cuesta College and CMC in San Luis Obispo.
The nine-week program teaches students the fundamentals of culinary arts such as baking science, food safety and more.
After graduating the program, participants will have the skills necessary to gain employment in the culinary field when they parole.
One culinary program graduate of the program said he came into the class not even knowing how to boil water. Now, he’s one of the main chefs at the campus.
“It’s given me confidence,” said Michael Avington. “(The instructor) and all the staff have provided me with the skills that I can take and not only provide delicious food for my family, but I can get into the industry when I get out of here.”
CMC has had 18 cohorts in the program to date with roughly 200 incarcerated students graduating.
Submitted by Lt. T. Eilers
Read more rehabilitation stories.
Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.
Related content
A closer look at CTF Rising Scholars program
The Rising Scholars from Within (RSFW) program at the Correctional Training Facility (CTF) is a partnership with Hartnell College. The…
Life‑saving era: CDCR expands naloxone access
To decrease overdose deaths in California prisons, CDCR has expanded unprecedented access to naloxone. Commonly known by its brand name,…
Watch: Bonding on the Field: CIM flag football
On a foggy Friday afternoon at California Institution for Men (CIM) in Chino, competition and camaraderie came together as players…
Centinela hosts Saints Prison Ministry softball
Saints Prison Ministry visited Centinela State Prison (CEN) to engage incarcerated persons on three facilities in friendly yet competitive softball…
Probation, education leaders tour VSP
Valley State Prison (VSP) recently welcomed probation and education leaders on tours to learn more about rehabilitation efforts. The two…
Vic Blends makes surprise visit to Valley State Prison
On a recent afternoon, the newly renovated Valley State Prison barbershop was buzzing with excitement, but students had no idea…