Career Pathways for Incarcerated People

Program graduates stand in their caps and gowns — *A graduation ceremony was held to honor the first cohort of the Construction Pre-Apprenticeship Training Program in the San Diego area.*

Contributing to a Well-Trained, Quality Workforce

CDCR’s goal is for every incarcerated person to take advantage of positive programming and rehabilitative opportunities such as education, self-help, vocational and other programs. These career pathways are intended to ease the transition back into their communities and reduce recidivism.

Part of a person’s rehabilitation includes work assignments, which teach valuable skills for finding jobs after prison. Incarcerated people can learn construction, dog training, computer coding, and working in hospice care, among other jobs.

Every job is dignified, and CDCR strives to provide job opportunities and training similar to those outside of prison.

a formerly incarcerated person poses with his new work truck

California State Agency Hires of Formerly Incarcerated People

State agencies often partner with CDCR to provide incarcerated people who are preparing for release access to civil service positions. CALPIA’s Transition to Employment Program assists with creating a CalJOBS account, outlining a CALPIA Work History Report and a resume, and obtaining personal identification like a birth certificate, state ID or social security card.

Civil service exams and hiring fairs provide an opportunity for skilled workers to ask questions and network with potential employers.

Earning Credits

Incarcerated people receive credits off of their prison terms for work assignments, as well as rehabilitation, education and self-help programs.

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Job Criteria

Work assignments take into account the person’s needs and wants, eligibility and availability of desired work or program activity, an institution’s security and operational needs, and the individual’s overall health and safety.