For individuals seeking to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to society after incarceration, correctional facilities are increasingly offering comprehensive career programs. These initiatives are designed to equip individuals with valuable skills, certifications, and real-world experience, paving the way for successful reintegration and meaningful employment. Let’s explore the diverse range of career programs available at corrections and how they act as a vital bridge to a brighter future.
Correctional facilities understand the importance of workforce readiness. Through dedicated divisions like the Department of Corrections Division of Offender Rehabilitative Services, institutions are implementing efficient and effective career and technical education services. These programs are not just about filling time; they are strategic investments in individual potential and community well-being. By fostering partnerships with Workforce Development Boards and state agencies, correctional systems are continuously expanding their vocational training options, ensuring programs remain relevant to current industry demands.
A key component of these programs is hands-on learning. Utilizing simulators and practical classroom settings, offender students gain invaluable experience in fields like wastewater management, heavy equipment operation, and horticulture and farming. This practical approach ensures that upon release, individuals possess demonstrable skills sought after by employers.
Correctional career programs also serve as a valuable resource for businesses. Companies across various sectors, including manufacturing, construction, automotive, and healthcare, can tap into a skilled labor force trained within these institutions. Pre-release resource fairs and video interviews facilitate recruitment, while post-release reentry programs further support the transition of trained laborers into the workforce. This symbiotic relationship benefits both individuals re-entering society and businesses seeking qualified employees.
To solidify skills and enhance employability, many programs culminate in industry-recognized certifications. These credentials validate the competencies gained and provide a competitive edge in the job market. Common certifications offered include:
- Career Connections Levels 1, 2, and 3: Foundational skills for workplace success.
- Certiport: Demonstrates proficiency in Microsoft Office and other digital literacy skills.
- Cosmetology License: Professional licensing for careers in beauty and personal care.
- DOL Certificate: Recognition of completion of apprenticeship programs meeting Department of Labor standards.
- National Center for Construction and Education Research (NCCER): Industry-recognized credentials in construction trades.
- ServSafe: Essential certification for food handling and safety in the food service industry.
The breadth of programs offered is extensive, catering to diverse interests and aptitudes. Here’s a glimpse into some specific career pathways available:
Automotive Mechanics
This program delves into the intricacies of vehicle maintenance and repair, covering areas such as electrical and ignition systems, engine repair, steering and suspension, brakes, and transmissions. Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions in auto repair shops and dealerships.
Institutions: Algoa Correctional Center, Jefferson City; Western Missouri Correctional Center, Cameron; Northeast Correctional Center, Bowling Green
Applied Computer Technology
In today’s digital age, computer skills are paramount. This program equips individuals with essential computer proficiencies, including keyboarding, Microsoft Windows and Office Suite applications (Word, Excel), and basic computer hardware and software maintenance. This training opens doors to office administration, data entry, and customer service roles.
Institutions: Farmington Correctional Center, Farmington; Western Missouri Correctional Center, Cameron
Basic Welding
Welding is a high-demand trade, and this program provides a solid foundation in welding techniques. Students learn oxyfuel cutting, base metal preparation, and shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), along with metal inert gas (MIG) welding. Graduates can pursue careers in construction, manufacturing, and repair industries.
Institutions: Algoa Correctional Center, Jefferson City; Boonville Correctional Center, Boonville; Moberly Correctional Center, Moberly; Western Missouri Correctional Center, Cameron
Building Trades
This comprehensive program offers a broad introduction to various construction trades. Participants gain basic carpentry skills, plumbing, framing, drywall, painting, and electrical repair knowledge. This versatile skillset prepares individuals for roles in residential and commercial construction.
Institutions: Moberly Correctional Center, Moberly; Northeast Correctional Center, Bowling Green; Western Missouri Correctional Center, Cameron
Business Technology
Focusing on the skills needed for modern office environments, this program covers keyboarding, ten-key operation, office basics, and essential office support skills. Graduates are well-suited for administrative assistant, clerical, and office support positions.
Institutions: Chillicothe Correctional Center, Chillicothe; Women’s Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and Correctional Center, Vandalia
Certified Nurse’s Assistant (CNA)
With a growing demand for healthcare professionals, the CNA program provides training in patient care within long-term care environments. Curriculum includes human anatomy and physiology, vital signs monitoring, and patient care planning. CNAs play a crucial role in providing direct patient care in nursing homes and assisted living facilities.
Institutions: Women’s Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and Correctional Center, Vandalia
Commercial Vehicle Operator (CDL)
The transportation industry is constantly seeking qualified drivers. This program provides instruction leading to a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), covering pre-trip inspections, transmission operation, and driving skills. CDL holders are in demand for trucking, delivery, and transportation companies.
Institutions: Farmington Correctional Center, Farmington; Northeast Correctional Center, Bowling Green
Cosmetology
For individuals with an interest in beauty and personal care, the Cosmetology program offers training to obtain a cosmetology license. The curriculum covers hair care, skincare, nail care, and salon management, preparing graduates for careers as hairdressers, barbers, and beauty professionals.
Institutions: Chillicothe Correctional Center, Chillicothe; Women’s Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and Correctional Center, Vandalia
Culinary Arts
The Culinary Arts program provides a pathway to careers in the food service industry. Students learn about food safety (ServSafe certification), tools and equipment, cooking methods, and techniques. Graduates can pursue roles as cooks, chefs, and food service managers in restaurants, catering companies, and institutional kitchens.
Institutions: Algoa Correctional Center, Jefferson City; Chillicothe Correctional Center, Chillicothe; Missouri Eastern Correctional Center, Pacific; Women’s Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and Correctional Center, Vandalia
Customer Service Representative
In the service industry, excellent customer service skills are highly valued. This program focuses on service industry careers, keyboarding, and the principles of effective customer service. Graduates are prepared for customer service roles in various sectors, including retail, call centers, and hospitality.
Institutions: Chillicothe Correctional Center, Chillicothe
Diesel Mechanics
This specialized program focuses on the maintenance and repair of diesel engines and heavy-duty vehicles. Students learn about brake and wheel systems, transmissions, cooling systems, engines, and electrical systems specific to trucks and diesel equipment. Diesel mechanics are essential for trucking companies, construction firms, and agricultural operations.
Institutions: Western Missouri Correctional Center, Cameron
Electrical Wiring Technology
Focusing on residential and light commercial wiring, this program utilizes the National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER) core curriculum. Students learn essential electrical wiring skills, safety procedures, and code requirements, preparing them for electrician apprenticeships and entry-level electrical work.
Institutions: Boonville Correctional Center, Boonville; Western Missouri Correctional Center, Cameron
Heavy Equipment Operator
This program provides an introduction to the operation of heavy equipment using simulators. Students gain experience with excavators, construction tractors, forklifts, and skid loaders. This training is a stepping stone to careers in construction, excavation, and site development.
Institutions: Boonville Correctional Center, Boonville
Introduction to Food Service
As a foundational program for culinary careers, this course introduces ServSafe principles and basic culinary arts. Students learn about food safety, personal food preparation, and food service techniques. It serves as an excellent starting point for individuals interested in pursuing further culinary training or entry-level food service positions.
Institutions: Algoa Correctional Center, Jefferson City
Modern Cabinetry and Construction
This program focuses on woodworking skills relevant to cabinetry and construction. Students learn general woodworking techniques, wood finishing, basic wood fabrication processes, and explore specialized topics within the field. Graduates can pursue careers in cabinet making, carpentry, and woodworking industries.
Institutions: Western Missouri Correctional Center, Cameron
Outdoor Power Equipment
Focusing on small engine repair, this program covers servicing ignition systems, engine overhauls, drive train systems, electrical wiring systems, and fuel systems for outdoor power equipment. Graduates can find employment in lawn and garden equipment repair shops and outdoor equipment dealerships.
Institutions: Western Missouri Correctional Center, Cameron
Professional Gardening
For those with an interest in horticulture and landscaping, this program provides an introduction to greenhouse operation and management, plant science basics, landscape design elements, and pest control. Graduates can pursue careers in landscaping, gardening, and greenhouse operations.
Institutions: Chillicothe Correctional Center, Chillicothe; Missouri Eastern Correctional Center, Pacific; Northeast Correctional Center, Bowling Green; Women’s Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and Correctional Center, Vandalia
Residential Plumbing
This program focuses on the skills needed for residential plumbing maintenance and repair. Students learn to identify fittings, join copper tubing and steel pipe, set plumbing fixtures, and work with plastic and steel pipe. The curriculum also includes the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) core curriculum, providing industry-recognized training in plumbing.
Institutions: Tipton Correctional Center, Tipton
In conclusion, the career programs offered at corrections facilities are diverse and impactful. They represent a commitment to rehabilitation, providing individuals with the skills and certifications necessary to secure meaningful employment and successfully transition back into their communities. These programs not only benefit the individuals involved but also contribute to a stronger workforce and safer society.
