Successful Rehabilitation: 45 Incarcerated Individuals Earn Job Certifications at Mule Creek State Prison

Forty-five incarcerated individuals received their job certifications and apprenticeships from the California Prison Industry Authority (CALPIA) at Mule Creek State Prison on September 12. This important milestone was celebrated in partnership with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), California Correctional Health Care Services, and the California Department of Industrial Relations, recognizing the achievements and hard work of the graduates.

CALPIA’s General Manager Bill Davidson emphasized the importance of the jobs performed by the graduates, encouraging them to view their positions not merely as temporary employment at the prison, but as the start of their careers. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and staff, who gathered to honor the accomplishments of the graduates, some of whom received industry-accredited certifications while others obtained apprenticeships.

Among the graduates was Jesus Tovar, who earned a certification in Healthcare Facilities Maintenance. Tovar expressed gratitude for the responsibility and training provided by CALPIA, which he plans to use to support his family upon release. CDCR’s Undersecretary of Health Care Services, Dr. Diana Toche, commended the graduates for their commitment to seizing educational opportunities and emphasized the high standards of cleanliness taught within the program.

Chief Deputy Warden Bryan Holmes also celebrated the graduates’ achievements, expressing pride in Mule Creek State Prison’s partnership with CALPIA. He highlighted the rehabilitation and preparation efforts made to equip individuals with the necessary skills and trade knowledge to reintegrate into society.

Former CALPIA graduate Tony Curtis, who once was incarcerated, served as the keynote speaker. Curtis shared his story of obtaining three certifications during his incarceration, including certifications in Opticianry and Healthcare Facilities Maintenance. He now co-owns a construction company and serves as a senior pastor, demonstrating the tangible success that can be achieved through CALPIA’s training opportunities. Curtis encouraged graduates to embrace opportunities and access doors that lead to future success.

Bill Davidson underscored the impact of Curtis’s testimony, highlighting the inspiring effect it can have on current graduates. By sharing personal stories of transformation and success, Davidson believes that graduates can find hope and motivation to pursue their own successful reintegration journeys.