Marking significant milestones for rehabilitation and workforce development, 104 incarcerated individuals graduated the construction training program in 2024.
The Multi-Craft Core Curriculum (MC3) pre-apprenticeship program is a transformative initiative providing participants with valuable trade certifications and hands-on experience to help them successfully reintegrate into society.
The MC3 program, a partnership between the Inmate/Ward Labor Program (IWL) and the California State Building Trades Council, has been empowering incarcerated individuals since 2012. However, the program faced significant setbacks during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The 2024 relaunch marked a triumphant return, with eight classes conducted across five institutions: Central California Women’s Facility (CCWF), California State Prison, Corcoran (CSP-Corcoran), California State Prison, Sacramento (SAC), California Men’s Colony (CMC), and Salinas Valley State Prison (SVSP).
Construction training program builds skills, creates opportunities
The MC3 curriculum mirrors industry-standard pre-apprenticeship training, covering essential topics such as blueprint reading, construction mathematics, green building techniques, and the history of the American worker.
Participants also earned certifications in:
- first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and automated external defibrillator
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10 safety training
- and industrial equipment operation, including forklift certification.
“These skills and certifications are crucial for opening doors to meaningful employment opportunities post-incarceration,” said Forrest Barton, IWL program administrator. “They provide a foundation for participants to build a future in the construction industry.”
Hands-on contributions to statewide projects
Graduates of the program were involved in critical construction projects across California, including:
- Healthcare Facility Improvement Program (HCFIP): Constructing new medical facilities, which are now fully operational.
- ADA Compliance Projects: Enhancing accessibility for staff and incarcerated individuals.
- Statewide Roofing Program: Improving infrastructure and living conditions at various institutions.
These projects offer practical training opportunities while also allowing IWL participants to meaningfully contribute to their institutional community with a sense of accomplishment.
A new era for the program
As of Jan. 1, 2025, the IWL was renamed the Correctional Construction Mentorship Program. The new name better reflects its mission of mentorship and rehabilitation. The name change signifies CDCR’s commitment to fostering a supportive, work-based learning environment. CDCR isn’t just teaching trade skills but rather equipping individuals with life skills and the confidence to succeed after parole.
Looking ahead
The CCM program will continue to align with the California Model, emphasizing rehabilitation and preparation for reentry. Plans are underway to expand the program to more institutions, providing even more individuals with access to this life-changing opportunity.
Celebrating the graduates
The 104 graduates of the 2024 program were celebrated for their hard work and dedication.
“These individuals have demonstrated resilience and determination,” said a CDCR spokesperson. “Their success is a testament to the power of second chances.”
As they move forward with newfound skills and certifications, these graduates are poised to rebuild their lives — and contribute to California’s workforce — one project at a time.
Story submitted by Angela Ardisana
Special Assistant to the Director and Deputy Director
Facility Planning, Construction and Management
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