Meet Breann Cantu, Academy administrator

February 18, 2026

Today, Breann Cantu oversees the academy where she graduated in 2008, helping shape the next generation of CDCR officers.

For 18 years, Academy Administrator Breann Cantu has helped the department fulfill its public safety mission. She began in 2008 as an officer, graduating from the Basic Correctional Officer Academy. Today, she oversees the same Academy, helping shape the next generation of correctional officers.

Inside CDCR caught up with Cantu to discuss her career and why she chose to work for the department.

Q&A with Academy Administrator Breann Cantu

What is something a member of the public might be surprised to learn about working for CDCR?

Our department is very elusive due to much of our operations being inside of the institutions.

Working for CDCR, they might be surprised to learn each institution is like a small city, wherein every discipline such as nursing, dentistry, education and uniformed staff, must work together collectively for the same mission of safety and security.

We do all this while providing programs and services to the incarcerated population. While it may be organized chaos at times, we collectively come together as a team to make it work.

Why did you choose to join the department?

I had my eyes set on becoming a correctional counselor. And like many other law enforcement agencies, you must put your time in and show you are capable and competent for such a promotion. Therefore, when I began in 2008 as an officer, I was determined to work hard, learn from those who came before me, and figure out what it would take when the time was right to become a correctional counselor. Little did I know when I started my career, the endless opportunities the department had to offer.

‘Endless opportunities’

What do you enjoy most about your career?

What I enjoy most about my career is no day is the same as the next. Every day I have the opportunity to learn and experience something new. I also enjoy the camaraderie that is built within our department. We count on each other to go home safe every night to our families. Through that, strong bonds are created as well as lifelong friendships.

What are some of the biggest changes you’ve seen during your time with the department?

Like life itself, our department is full of changes. And rather than speak about the changes themselves, the important piece to focus on is how you navigate through that change.

Change and adversity are inevitable, and with the mindset of making the best of what comes our way, is what helps produce a long and fulfilled career. Always be open to change and the potential to do great things.

What advice you might have for others looking to join CDCR?

The possibilities are endless. From correctional officers to fire camps and K-9 officers to Crisis Response Teams, there is a fit for everyone. If you are looking for a change or want to try something new, this department offers those opportunities and is a statewide agency. Join this department because there is continual opportunity for both professional and personal growth.

‘Never let an opportunity pass you by’

Do you have any advice for those looking to promote within the department?

The best advice I can give to someone looking to promote is to remember, every day is an interview. Your daily performance and willingness to go above and beyond will be noticed. Hard work, a good attitude and the ability to be a helping hand speaks volumes.

Beyond this, never let an opportunity pass you by. Take the promotional exam if you are eligible, apply for the position if you are even the slightest bit interested, because you never know when the time will be right. This department has endless opportunities. If you want it, you can achieve it.

Story by Don Chaddock, Inside CDCR editor
Office of Public and Employee Communications

Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter).