SVSP sees 15 graduate construction mentorship program

August 11, 2026

Salinas Valley State Prison (SVSP) at Soledad recently recognized 15 incarcerated students who completed the Correctional Construction Mentorship (CCM) program. This workforce development initiative is administered by CDCR’s Facility Planning, Construction and Management (FPCM).

The graduates were honored for successfully completing the Multi-Craft Core Curriculum Pre-Apprenticeship Program. This nationally recognized training prepares participants for careers in the construction trades.

Graduation hardhats for the 15 students at Salinas Valley State Prison, or SVSP, at Soledad, California.

Construction Services Branch Associate Director Forrest Barton emceed the graduation ceremony. He also spoke about the strong demand for skilled trades workers and the opportunities programs like CCM create for participants and their families.

“The construction trades are actively seeking skilled workers, and this program represents a transformative first step toward meaningful careers and brighter futures,” Barton said.

Family, staff attend ceremony

An incarcerated man wearing a hardhat with three other family members at SVSP for construction program.

SVSP incarcerated construction program graduates with their families.

Family members, institutional staff and program partners attended the ceremony. Together they celebrated the graduates’ accomplishments, recognizing their commitment to personal growth and rehabilitation.

The CCM program is delivered in partnership with the State Building and Construction Trades Council of California. It combines classroom instruction with hands-on mentorship in a structured, work-like environment. It also provides participants with practical experience through construction and maintenance projects at SVSP.

Graduates completed coursework in industry awareness, construction management, health and safety, construction mathematics and other core trade skills.

Barton, left, speaks during the SVSP construction program graduation.

A graduate holds his certificate at SVSP.

During the ceremony, Chief Deputy Warden Jose Ortega praised the graduates for their dedication and perseverance, encouraging them to continue building upon the skills they developed and pursue future educational and career opportunities.

The CCM Program reflects FPCM’s ongoing commitment to rehabilitation through education, vocational training and industry partnerships. CCM equips incarcerated individuals with marketable job skills, supports successful reentry into their communities and contributes to public safety throughout California.

Submitted by Lt. Jonathan Sevey

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