Region III is embracing the team atmosphere in the Bakersfield Regional Office.
In January 2025, CDCR and California Correctional Health Care Services (CCHCS) transitioned from a mission-based model to a regional model.
Under this new structure, leadership and staff from the Division of Adult Institutions (DAI), Division of Rehabilitative Programs (DRP), and CCHCS are aligned geographically rather than by program alone. The goal is to improve communication, streamline decision-making, and strengthen collaboration across divisions.
This change has been visible at the Bakersfield Regional Office, which houses staff from multiple regions, including Region III and Southern Region CCHCS Human Resources.
Regional leadership meetings
Associate Director (AD) Bryan Phillips, Region III Assistant Chief of Education Troy Tenhet, and Regional Health Care Executive (RHCE) Michael Whittaker model the approach by including each other and their staff in joint leadership meetings with wardens and chief executive officers.
This inclusive structure has already led to stronger communication and quicker resolution of operational challenges.
Region III team-building activities
Beyond work, leaders support activities to build camaraderie and help staff embrace their differences.
“We are learning best practices from each other and that can only make us better,” said RHCE Whittaker.
Recently, staff held a contest to design a new regional logo. On Aug. 20, the Bakersfield Regional Office also hosted a blood drive, salsa contest, and taco lunch.
AD Phillips announced the winning logo, designed by DAI Region III Correctional Counselor II Tyler Clayton.
“This logo shows that we are one team here in Region III,” said Phillips.
CCHCS Staff Services Analyst Kristen Fulton won the salsa contest, with DAI Region III Lt. Noel Diaz placing second.
The Houchin Community Blood Bank registered 26 donors, collected 21 units, and welcomed 10 first-time donors. With each unit potentially saving up to three lives, the event could help save as many as 63 lives in the community.
Submitted by CDCR, CCHCS, DAI, DRP Region III
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