Forty-five incarcerated individuals received their job certifications and/or apprenticeships from the California Prison Industry Authority (CALPIA) at Mule Creek State Prison on Sept. 12. In partnership with CDCR, California Correctional Health Care Services, and the California Department of Industrial Relations, CALPIA recognized the graduates for their hard work and accomplishments. “These jobs that you do on a day-to-day basis are important,” said CALPIA’s General Manager Bill Davidson. “I hope you do this not just as a job while you are here at Mule Creek, but as the beginning of your career.” Family, friends and staff attended the afternoon ceremony.

CALPIA Graduates Receive Industry Accreditations

CALPIA graduates at Mule Creek received industry accredited certifications in:

• Healthcare Facilities Maintenance: This program teaches individuals how to clean at a hospital level, equipping them with skills valuable in various settings, from hospitals and dental offices to starting their own cleaning businesses.
• Construction Trades: This program provides individuals with the skills and knowledge required to work in various construction trades, preparing them for roles in the construction industry.
• Other Programs: The program also offered certifications in various other fields, demonstrating the diverse opportunities available to incarcerated individuals seeking to develop their skills and prepare for reintegration into society.

Some graduates also received apprenticeships, offering them hands-on experience in their chosen field, further enhancing their job readiness.

Graduates Share Their Stories

Jesus Tovar, one of the graduates, received his certification in Healthcare Facilities Maintenance. He expressed his appreciation for the program, stating, “This is my first time having responsibility and it is a milestone in my life. I am completing this because I had proper training through CALPIA. I am getting out soon and now I can take this to the streets and provide for my kids.” Tovar's words highlight the transformative power of the CALPIA program, empowering individuals to take control of their futures and provide for their families upon release.

Emphasis on Rehabilitation and Job Training

CDCR’s Undersecretary of Health Care Services Dr. Diana Toche spoke about the importance of rehabilitation and job training programs, emphasizing the high quality of training offered by CALPIA. “Congratulations for seizing the opportunities before you,” said Dr. Toche. “This is why programming is so important. We want you to be able to provide for yourselves and your families when you leave here. It is through our partnership, that we get to see firsthand the success of rehabilitation and job training programs.” Dr. Toche's words underscore the crucial role that rehabilitation and job training play in preparing incarcerated individuals for successful reentry into society.

A Path to Success

Chief Deputy Warden Bryan Holmes acknowledged the graduates and emphasized the importance of the program for their rehabilitation and future success. “Mule Creek State Prison is proud to work with CALPIA toward your rehabilitation and a path that allows you the ability to learn these skills, trades, and a sense of normalcy,” said Chief Deputy Warden Holmes. “We want you prepared to return back to society and your families.” Chief Deputy Warden Holmes’s words highlight the commitment of Mule Creek State Prison to providing incarcerated individuals with the tools and support they need to succeed upon release.

Former Graduate Shares Inspiring Story

Tony Curtis, a former CALPIA graduate, delivered the keynote address, sharing his inspiring story of success after incarceration. Curtis obtained three certifications while in prison, including his Optician certification through the American Board of Opticianry, a certification in Construction, and another in Healthcare Facilities Maintenance. “The skills and opportunities that were provided by CALPIA are the doors that I went through that lead to the success I have today,” said Curtis. “Viable skills that work in the real community outside these walls.” Curtis's story serves as a powerful testament to the potential for positive change through rehabilitation and job training programs.

A Path to Success and New Beginnings

Upon returning to his community, Curtis secured employment as an environmental services technician at a San Diego Hospital and also worked as a journeyman for construction firm Henkels and McCoy. He is now the co-owner of his own construction company and is the senior pastor of a Southern California Christian Church. His success story demonstrates the transformative power of CALPIA and the potential for positive change after incarceration.

Words of Encouragement for Graduates

Curtis's address resonated with the graduates, offering them a glimpse of a successful future. “You must seize every opportunity that you are given and walk through that door in order to have success in the future,” Curtis advised the graduates. His words of encouragement resonated deeply with the graduates, offering them hope and inspiration for their future.

Davidson emphasized the importance of former graduates like Curtis returning to prison to share their stories and offer inspiration. “He has been in their shoes and can inspire graduates with hope,” added Davidson. “Change is possible, and we want them to succeed.” The presence of former graduates like Curtis serves as a powerful reminder that success after incarceration is achievable, providing hope and inspiration for the current graduates.

By Michele Kane, assistant general manager, external affairsCalifornia Prison Industry Authority

A Glimpse of Hope

The graduation ceremony at Mule Creek State Prison is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of rehabilitation and job training programs, providing incarcerated individuals with the opportunity to gain valuable skills, prepare for successful reentry into society, and build a better future for themselves and their families.

The success stories of graduates like Tony Curtis serve as beacons of hope, demonstrating that positive change is possible and that individuals can overcome challenges and achieve their goals. The commitment of CALPIA, CDCR, and other partners in providing these programs is essential in creating a more just and equitable society, giving incarcerated individuals the tools they need to thrive upon release.