Women of CDCR
CDCR hires women at a higher rate than the national average.
Join our remarkable team to make your mark on the world. The women of CDCR are making a difference in California and beyond with their inspiring work.
“You are an inspiration to others even when you don’t know it.
You are inspiring people and that is powerful.”
Connie Gipson, Director of the Division of Adult Institutions
What inspired you to join CDCR?
“As a teen, I aspired to attain a career in Law Enforcement. After learning how large the Department is, I knew there would be many avenues of opportunity within a CDCR career. This was very desirable to me because I love trying and learning about different jobs.”
Vanessa Melendez, Background Sergeant Investigation Unit
“I am so thankful for the women who have paved the way for other women to come into this department because we are accepted, we do have a role in this department and that is recognized.”
Candi Allen, Lieutenant
“I wanted to do something different. I wanted to be somebody. As I said before, I wanted to be a warden as I became a correctional officer and I have accomplished my goals.”
Cynthia Tampkins, Warden (Retired)
“If you set your mind to it, you can accomplish anything here.
There’s just so many opportunities for us to promote, to lateral over.”
Mayra Guzman, K9 Officer
“You just never know who you are going to touch. You never know whose life you are going to change. But again, it comes back to dignity and respect.
Conducting yourself with integrity. If all these things sound like you, then this is something you should really consider.”
Karen Mory, Senior Special Agent, San Diego Special Services Unit (Retired)
“Everyone was so supportive, I couldn’t have asked for a better group of people surrounding me. From the Warden down day one I had everybody’s support.”
Sabrina Harris, Correctional Sergeant
Promotional Opportunities in CDCR
“There is real opportunity for women to grow in the Department,” Llerena said. “It can be what you want — there are so many avenues if you work at it.” Click here to read more.
“I joined CDCR because I was looking for a new challenge. The Criminal Intelligence Analysis Unit checked all those boxes.” Click here to read more.
