Vocational Training: Marketable training that provides specific entry-level or advanced job skills and certification that is instructor-led with hands-on skill building, as well as, live-work projects. A variety of skilled trades are offered including building trades, welding, heating ventilation and refrigeration (HVAC), highway construction, and wind-turbine technology.

Generally, these programs require inmates to have completed the high school equivalency, but concurrent enrollment is sometimes possible. Each individual program is designed to enhance post-release employment opportunities by providing inmates with the ability to obtain marketable, in-demand employment skills. Most programs follow a competency-based curriculum, which teaches specific job skills and leads to a recognized credential, certificate, or degree.

It should be noted that some programs offer “exploratory courses,” which allow inmates to explore a possible program before making a long-term commitment.