On September 12, a ceremony at Mule Creek State Prison recognized the achievements of 45 incarcerated individuals who received 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.
CALPIA’s General Manager Bill Davidson addressed the graduates, emphasizing the significance of their daily tasks and encouraging them to view their employment as a stepping stone to future careers. “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,” said Davidson.
The afternoon ceremony was attended by family, friends, and staff, where graduates were awarded industry-recognized certifications in various fields, including Data Entry, Clothing and Fabric, Food and Beverage Packaging, Commercial Laundry, and Healthcare Facilities Maintenance. Some graduates also secured apprenticeships.
Among the graduates was Jesus Tovar, who earned his certification in Healthcare Facilities Maintenance. He expressed pride in his accomplishment, stating, “This is my first time having responsibility and it is a milestone in my life… 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, spoke to the graduates about the high-quality cleaning skills they acquired, urging them to envision a positive future. “Congratulations for seizing the opportunities before you. We want you to be able to provide for yourselves and your families when you leave here,” Dr. Toche remarked.
Chief Deputy Warden Bryan Holmes also praised the graduates, highlighting the partnership with CALPIA that facilitates skill development and rehabilitation. He stated, “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.”
Tony Curtis, a former CALPIA graduate, delivered the keynote address and shared his personal journey of success after incarceration. Curtis obtained three certifications while imprisoned, including one in Opticianry. He is now a co-owner of a construction company and a senior pastor. He encouraged graduates to take advantage of every opportunity for future success, saying, “You must seize every opportunity that you are given and walk through that door in order to have success in the future.”
Davidson further emphasized the importance of former graduates like Curtis returning to inspire current inmates, noting that “Change is possible, and we want them to succeed.”