San Quentin celebrates 27 construction mentorship graduates

January 26, 2026

From left are business representative Tommy Sandoval, instructor Jesse Rios, graduate Schrubb and Associate Director Forrest Barton.

CDCR’s Facility Planning, Construction, and Management (FPCM), Correctional Construction Mentorship (CCM) Program, recognized 27 graduates.

In cooperation with San Quentin Rehabilitation Center, and with the support of Warden Chance Andes, the graduates were recognized for completing the MC3 Curriculum Pre-Apprenticeship Program.

The ceremony was emceed by Construction Services Branch Associate Director Forrest Barton.

He said trade crafts are actively seeking members and how this program represents a transformative first step for the graduates as well as their families.

Attendees included instructor Jesse Rios of Local 3, District Council Business representative Tommy Sandoval, CCM Supervisors Jack Roll and Steve Vivian, and CCM Safety Coordinator Charles Kaup.

Many program supporters and graduates’ family members also attended.

In all, 27 incarcerated students graduated from the Correctional Constructor Mentorship program at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center.

The CCM Program’s use of the MC3 Curriculum is supported through the State Building and Construction Trades Council of California. This class was specifically supported by District Council 16, Local Union 3 Painters and Drywall Finishers. They provided expert instruction, mentorship, and guidance to participants. Instructor Rios led the classroom instruction and hands-on training, earning high praise from the students. Graduates said they appreciated the class and their instructor. Their comments highlighted the meaningful impact he had on their personal and professional development.

The program emphasizes hands-on instruction and mentorship while replicating a normative working construction environment. While not in class, participants are gaining on-the-job experience (OJT) on the Upper Yard Renovation Project. The effort is transforming San Quentin’s Upper Yard into a campus-style commons area for gathering, providing practical, real-world construction experience.

Incarcerated students learn a trade

Graduates completed an eight-chapter curriculum which includes:

Industry Awareness – understanding the construction trades and labor market
Blueprint Reading – interpreting technical drawings and plans
Opportunities in the Crafts – exploring career paths and apprenticeship options
Construction Management – fundamentals of project planning and supervision
Heritage in the American Worker – history and contributions of American labor
Health & Safety – workplace safety practices and compliance
First Aid & CPR – life-saving skills for emergency preparedness
Construction Mathematics – practical math skills applied to construction tasks

In his remarks, Warden Andes praised the graduates for the dedication and effort they put into completing the program. He emphasized the importance of perseverance, discipline, and taking advantage of opportunities for growth.

To highlight the program’s impact, Schrubb was presented with his clemency certificate signed by Governor Gavin Newsom and presented by Warden Andes. He also received a letter of intent for employment from Tommy Sandoval on behalf of Murphy Industrial Coatings, Inc., offering him a career opportunity upon release.

“This graduation represents a significant milestone for the participants who demonstrated commitment, discipline, and a willingness to invest in their future,” said a CDCR representative. “Programs like CCM, operating within FPCM and supported by labor partners, help build technical expertise, life skills, and pathways to long-term success.”

The event underscored FPCM’s ongoing commitment to rehabilitation through education, skill development, and partnerships that promote successful reintegration and public safety.

Submitted by FCPM