On September 12, 45 incarcerated individuals at Mule Creek State Prison received job certifications and apprenticeships from the California Prison Industry Authority (CALPIA). This event, facilitated in collaboration with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), California Correctional Health Care Services, and the California Department of Industrial Relations, celebrated the hard work and achievements of the graduates.
CALPIA’s General Manager, Bill Davidson, addressed the graduates, emphasizing the importance of the jobs they undertook and encouraging them to view this as the start of their careers. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and staff who came to celebrate these achievements.
The graduates earned industry-recognized certifications in various fields, including Data Entry, Clothing and Fabric, Food and Beverage Packaging, Commercial Laundry, and Healthcare Facilities Maintenance. Some also completed apprenticeships as part of their training.
One graduate, Jesus Tovar, received his certification in Healthcare Facilities Maintenance, equipping him with skills for hospital-level cleaning. Tovar expressed pride in his accomplishments, stating that the training he received through CALPIA enabled him to provide for his children upon his release.
Dr. Diana Toche, CDCR’s Undersecretary of Health Care Services, praised the program’s high standards and encouraged the graduates to aspire to a positive future. She highlighted the importance of rehabilitation and job training programs in preparing individuals for successful reintegration into society.
Chief Deputy Warden Bryan Holmes commended the partnership with CALPIA, noting that it provides valuable skills and a sense of normalcy for the graduates as they prepare to return to their communities.
Former CALPIA graduate Tony Curtis delivered a keynote address, sharing his own success story. Curtis, who was once incarcerated, obtained multiple certifications while in prison and now co-owns a construction company and serves as a senior pastor. He urged the graduates to seize every opportunity for future success.
Davidson emphasized the significance of having former graduates like Curtis return to inspire current participants, reinforcing the message that change is achievable and success is possible for them as well.