| TRCI apprenticeship program changes inmates |
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| Department of Corrections teaches trade for released inmates to succeed |
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An apprenticeship program sponsored by the Physical Plant at Two Rivers Correctional Institution (TRCI) in Umatilla is teaching inmates to become electricians and sheet metal workers upon release.
Since initiation of the course, five apprentices have successfully completed the program and sat for the Oregon Manufacturing Plant Electrical exam. Those inmates received five of the six highest scores in the state electrical exam.
"By promoting positive personal growth, responsibility and teamwork, inmates gain work ethics and build their self-worth," says Jim Obannon, TRCI electrician. It also gives them something to be proud of and shows them they can accomplish constructive positive change.
In addition this program is about changing negative habits and behaviors into positive personal growth and successful futures while gaining the experience and knowledge of a trade.
One inmate apprentice who successfully completed the apprenticeship program at TRCI was selected for the Oregon SUMMIT Program at Shutter Creek Correctional Institution (SCCI) where he was able to gain additional values and tools for his success and graduated valedictorian of his class.
This program is an incentive to offenders to behave appropriately while incarcerated. Security staff say they are very grateful for the program because offenders become quality individuals while in the program. Not only that, but it keeps offenders very busy. The apprenticeship program is four years and equals 610 hours of electrical school. The students pay $25 a month while they’re in the program.
The department does not pay any part of this cost. By paying for it themselves, it gives the apprentices a sense of accomplishment and responsibility. To qualify for the program they need six months clear conduct, must be 18 years old, have a GED and, most importantly, the drive and commitment to learn and promote positive change.
For the inmates, this program creates self esteem and respect for others and allows them to understand the requirements for a successful future in the community by learning and practicing pro-social behavior.
Inmate families have also shared their gratitude for the program because of the transformation in their incarcerated loved ones. The attitude, respect, and improved outlook on life the inmates now show is remarkable, family members say.
The apprenticeship program is by definition the Oregon Accountability Model (OAM) and represents the Department of Corrections' mission. Oregon communities depend on us to keep them safe and our mission requires us to reduce the risk of future criminal behavior. This program does both by releasing respectful individuals into our communities who have left the negative behaviors and inmate mentality behind in addition to learning a career to become pro-social and productive members of society.
Approval for this program was gained by the efforts and participation of several members of the Oregon Department of Corrections, Bureau of Labor and Industries, Oregon Building Codes, and Education Direct Distant Learning Center. Because of its success, the program has since been initiated within EOCI, SRCI, DRCI, CCCF, OSCI, and OSP.
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