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CDCR welcomes 136 new correctional officers

January 8, 2025

CDCR welcomed 136 new correctional officers at a graduation ceremony held Friday, Jan. 3, at the Richard A. McGee Correctional Training Center in Galt. They now embark on their new careers as CDCR correctional officers.

This latest Basic Correctional Officer Academy class represents a significant step forward in CDCR’s ongoing efforts and focus on recruitment, hiring, promotion, retention and culture through collaboration of diverse and qualified candidates.

“Congratulations to the graduating class and thank you to the family, friends and staff who supported them during this journey. I commend you all for the hard work you have put in during this 13-week academy. It is now time for you apply everything you’ve learned,” said Warden Chance Andes, San Quentin Rehabilitation Center.

Basic Correctional Officer Academy graduation of 136 new officers for CDCR with cadets listening to a video message by the governor. — Cadets listen to Gov. Gavin Newsom via video during the academy graduation of class 1-25A.

Cadets celebrate with family, friends

Marking the occasion, family and friends attended the graduation ceremony to cheer on their loved ones stepping into their new careers.

Warden Andes delivered the keynote address and welcomed the 136 new correctional officers.

Thirty-seven of the graduates, or 27 percent of the class, are women. The number highlights the strides being made by CDCR to achieve the “30×30” pledge to have women make up 30 percent of correctional officer cadets by 2030.

Following their graduation, the officers will serve in institutions throughout California.

“I’ve always been a confident person, but joining the academy has strengthened my confidence even more. I am excited to be successful in this career and meet my new brothers and sisters at CSP-Solano,” said Taylor Wolf, graduate of class 1-25A.

Interested Correctional Officer applicants can apply online at JoinCDCR.com.

Academy Quick Facts:

The Basic Correctional Officer Academy, located in Galt, is a 13 week-program.
To attend the academy, candidates must complete the selection process and accept an institution assignment.
After accepting an assignment, candidates will receive an email with information needed before the start of the academy. They then must submit the required peace officer selection forms and handouts as specified in the e-mail/letter. Institution assignments are based on department needs. Applicants willing to take positions at High Desert State Prison, Pelican Bay, San Quentin and CSP-Sacramento will receive priority in the selection process.
Cadets who live more than 30 miles from the academy (one-way) have the option of living on-site at no cost or off-site at their own expense. Cadets may leave the grounds from the end of the scheduled duty day on Friday until the start of the scheduled duty hours on Monday. All attending cadets will be provided meals during the academy.
Each cadet will need $1,300 to $1,500 to buy required uniforms, equipment/accessories, athletic gear, and school supplies. Once you graduate and report to your institution, you will be eligible to receive an annual uniform allowance of up to $1,000.

Story by Todd Javernick, information officer
Photos by Richard Tan, TV Specialist
Office of Public and Employee Communications