On September 12, a ceremony at Mule Creek State Prison celebrated the achievements of 45 incarcerated individuals who received job certifications and apprenticeships from the California Prison Industry Authority (CALPIA). This event was held in partnership with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), California Correctional Health Care Services, and the California Department of Industrial Relations.
Bill Davidson, CALPIA’s General Manager, addressed the graduates, emphasizing the importance of the skills they learned during their time in the program. “These jobs that you do on a day-to-day basis are important. I hope you do this not just as a job while you are here at Mule Creek, but as the beginning of your career,” he stated.
The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and staff, who witnessed the graduates receive industry-accredited certifications in fields including Data Entry, Clothing and Fabric, Food and Beverage Packaging, Commercial Laundry, and Healthcare Facilities Maintenance. Some participants were also awarded apprenticeships.
Among the graduates was Jesus Tovar, who received his certification in Healthcare Facilities Maintenance. Tovar highlighted the significance of his training, saying, “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.”
Dr. Diana Toche, CDCR’s Undersecretary of Health Care Services, encouraged the graduates to envision a positive future. “Congratulations for seizing the opportunities before you. This is why programming is so important,” she stated. “We want you to be able to provide for yourselves and your families when you leave here.”
Chief Deputy Warden Bryan Holmes also recognized the significance of CALPIA’s efforts. “Mule Creek State Prison is proud to work with CALPIA toward your rehabilitation and a path that allows you to learn these skills, trades, and a sense of normalcy,” Holmes said.
Tony Curtis, a former CALPIA graduate, shared his inspiring journey as the keynote speaker. He recounted how he earned multiple certifications, including an Optician certification and skills in Construction and Healthcare Facilities Maintenance. Curtis emphasized the value of the education provided by CALPIA, stating, “The skills and opportunities that were provided by CALPIA are the doors that I went through that led to the success I have today.”
Now a co-owner of a construction company and a senior pastor in Southern California, Curtis urged the graduates to take advantage of the opportunities they have. “You must seize every opportunity that you are given and walk through that door in order to have success in the future,” he advised.
Davidson noted the impact of having former graduates like Curtis return to share their experiences. “Change is possible, and we want them to succeed,” he said.