On September 12, a ceremony took place at Mule Creek State Prison, where 45 incarcerated individuals were awarded job certifications and apprenticeships from the California Prison Industry Authority (CALPIA). This event was held in collaboration with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), California Correctional Health Care Services, and the California Department of Industrial Relations, acknowledging the graduates for their dedication and achievements.
CALPIA’s General Manager Bill Davidson addressed the graduates, encouraging them to view their work as the starting point for their careers rather than just temporary jobs during their incarceration.
Family, friends, and staff gathered to celebrate the accomplishments of the graduates, who received accredited certifications in various fields, including Data Entry, Clothing and Fabric, Food and Beverage Packaging, Commercial Laundry, and Healthcare Facilities Maintenance. Some individuals also completed apprenticeships as part of their training.
Graduate Jesus Tovar, who earned a certification in Healthcare Facilities Maintenance, stressed the importance of responsibility and the significance of his achievement in his life. He highlighted that the training received through CALPIA has equipped him to provide for his children upon release.
Dr. Diana Toche, Undersecretary of Health Care Services at CDCR, spoke to the graduates about the quality of training they received and encouraged them to envision a positive future. She emphasized the importance of job training programs for rehabilitation and supporting families post-incarceration.
Chief Deputy Warden Bryan Holmes also recognized the efforts of the graduates and reaffirmed Mule Creek State Prison’s commitment to rehabilitation and skill development to prepare them for reintegration into society.
Tony Curtis, a former CALPIA graduate, shared his journey to success as the keynote speaker. Curtis, who obtained three certifications while incarcerated, including in Opticianry and Construction, recounted how CALPIA provided him with essential skills that facilitated his achievements after release. He is now co-owner of a construction company and senior pastor of a church in Southern California. Curtis urged the graduates to seize opportunities for their future success.
Davidson noted the impact of sharing success stories from former graduates like Curtis, inspiring current inmates with the message that change is achievable and that they can also succeed in life after prison.