California Correctional Training and Rehabilitation Authority, Rehabilitation

CALPIA recognizes 90 graduates at CMC

October 3, 2025

Ninety incarcerated individuals received job certifications and/or apprenticeships from the California Prison Industry Authority (CALPIA) at California Men’s Colony (CMC).

The Sept. 18 graduation ceremony was held in front of family, friends and staff inside the chapel at CMC in San Luis Obispo.

In partnership with CDCR, California Correctional Health Care Services, and the California Department of Industrial Relations, CALPIA recognized the graduates with their industry accredited certifications.

Prison warden speaking at CALPIA graduation at CMC. — CMC Warden Danny Samuel

General Manager Bill Davidson speaking during the CALPIA graduation at CMC. — CMC Warden Danny Samuel

“Ultimately, this day is about each and every one of you gentlemen,” said CALPIA’s General Manager Bill Davidson. “As I stand here today and look out at every one of you, I am truly motivated and inspired. Thank you for what you have done and accomplished to be here today. You have demonstrated hard work, dedication, and commitment; I applaud you.”

These certifications help incarcerated individuals secure meaningful employment when returning to their communities.

CMC Warden Danny Samuel attended to show his support and share words of encouragement.

“We have an amazing relationship with CALPIA, and our collaboration is something special,” said Warden Samuel. “CALPIA programs provide you with job skills, technical skills, and prepare you for outside employment. This is a great milestone for you all, keep the momentum going and taking pride in your jobs.”

CALPIA success story

Justin Ennis, a CALPIA graduate, returned to prison to share his story of perseverance, growth, and success after release. He encouraged the graduates to believe that change is possible, and second chances can lead to lasting success.

Ennis graduated from CALPIA’s Food and Beverage Packaging program at California State Prison, Corcoran. As a supervisor in the program, he was involved in the daily activities of CALPIA’s operation. Ennis returned to his community in 2022 and applied for a position with a commercial property development firm on the Central Coast. He was quickly promoted and is now a project manager for the company.

“CALPIA works. It’s real (and) lays the groundwork and the effort you put in will make a difference. I want you guys to get out there and write your happy ending,” said Ennis.

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.

By Kendal Twilling, CALPIA, associate government program analyst