This month, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation graduated 16 inmates from the nation's first prison apprenticeship program for construction jobs. Through the program, called Career Technical Education-Carpentry, the inmates learned a number of skills that will help them find jobs upon their release such as painting, roofing, concrete pouring, and even drywall and framing.

The inmates also refurbished and converted areas of Folsom State Prison into training and engineering centers. Tools were provided by the Prison Industry Authority and training was provided by the Carpenters Training Committee for Northern California.

“The Prison Industry Authority and the Northern California Carpenters Regional Council have developed this partnership to provide a new type of job training. Inmates can learn various carpentry skill sets that are easily transferable to jobs on the outside. I am enthused about this program because by preparing inmates prior to their release, we can address the issues of unemployment among parolees,” said Charles Pattillo, PIA's acting General Manager said in a statement.”

Inmates who have successfully completed the program and are on parole are now eligible to work at a full apprenticeship program through the Carpenters Training Committee.