Seventeen incarcerated individuals received their job certifications and apprenticeships at the California Prison Industry Authority (CALPIA) June 11 graduation held for the first time at High Desert State Prison (HDSP).
In partnership with the CDCR, California Correctional Health Care Services, and the California Department of Industrial Relations, CALPIA recognized the graduates for their hard work and accomplishments.
“Gentlemen, today is all about you. We are here to recognize your accomplishments based off your decisions to invest in yourself,” said CALPIA General Manager Bill Davidson. “Thank you for the courage and dedication you have shown to be a part of a CALPIA program.”
Graduates received accredited certifications and apprenticeships in Healthcare Facilities Maintenance (HFM).
Associate Warden Daniel Stalter attended the graduation to show support and share words of encouragement.
“We are here today to recognize your commitment and hard work in CALPIA’s HFM program,” said Stalter. “You showed up, gained essential job skills, and earned your certifications today. You are on the right path in finding your new direction.”
Former CALPIA graduate Tommy DeLuna attended the graduation to inspire graduates on their special day.
“Look at how many of you are in this room, you have set yourself apart from the rest, added DeLuna. “The sky is the limit out there.”
DeLuna graduated from CALPIA’s General Fabrication program. He is now an Employment Specialist for St. Vincent de Paul’s Exodus Project which offers mentoring and extensive resources to people coming out of incarceration.
“You have shown that you can be successful. Continue with your hard work, focus, and you will reach the heights that you are trying to reach,” said DeLuna.
Graduate Dennis Lam, was joined by his loved one and shared a few words of what this graduation meant to him.
“I chose to be in a CALPIA program three years ago because I wanted to better myself, it was an opportunity to learn and have a skill set once I return to my community,” said CALPIA graduate Lam.
“I am so proud of him,” said Lam’s wife. “This has been the longest job he has ever had while being incarcerated. It’s a great achievement.”
A recent University of California, Irvine, recidivism study found that CALPIA participants have a 15 percent return to custody rate after three years, which means 85 percent of all CALPIA participants do not return to prison.
Story by Stephanie Eres, public information officer, CALPIA
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