Forty-five individuals currently incarcerated at Mule Creek State Prison received their job certifications and apprenticeships from the California Prison Industry Authority (CALPIA) on September 12.
In collaboration with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), California Correctional Health Care Services, and the California Department of Industrial Relations, CALPIA celebrated the achievements of these graduates, highlighting their dedication and hard work.
Bill Davidson, CALPIA’s General Manager, addressed the graduates, emphasizing the significance of their daily tasks. “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 graduation ceremony was attended by family, friends, and staff members, with graduates receiving certifications in various fields, including:
– Data Entry
– Clothing and Fabric
– Food and Beverage Packaging
– Commercial Laundry
– Healthcare Facilities Maintenance
Some individuals also secured apprenticeships.
One graduate, Jesus Tovar, earned his certification in Healthcare Facilities Maintenance. He noted, “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, the CDCR’s Undersecretary of Health Care Services, commended the quality of training provided and encouraged the graduates to envision a hopeful future. “Congratulations for seizing the opportunities before you,” she said. “We want you to be able to provide for yourselves and your families when you leave here.”
Chief Deputy Warden Bryan Holmes also spoke to the graduates, reiterating Mule Creek State Prison’s commitment to their rehabilitation and skills development, aiming to help them reintegrate into society effectively.
Former CALPIA graduate Tony Curtis shared his inspirational journey during the keynote address. Curtis, who was once incarcerated, discussed obtaining multiple certifications in prison, including Optician certification, a Construction certification, and a Healthcare Facilities Maintenance certification. He explained how the skills he gained through CALPIA have positively impacted his life.
Curtis now works as an environmental services technician at a hospital and a journeyman for a construction company, and he is also the co-owner of his own construction firm and a senior pastor in Southern California. He encouraged the graduates to embrace every opportunity for future success.
Davidson remarked on the importance of sharing success stories like Curtis’s, as they can motivate current graduates with the hope that change is attainable.