#United States #Plano, Texas #Securus Technologies #Workbay #Texas Department of Criminal Justice

Transforming Workforce Development for Incarcerated Individuals in Texas

Securus Technologies has taken a significant step towards rehabilitating incarcerated individuals by partnering with Workbay and the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ). This collaboration focuses on expanding access to career training and digital learning tools, aiming to empower inmates with the resources they need to secure jobs upon release.

A New Era in Rehabilitation

With an impressive reach, this initiative has already engaged over 100,000 incarcerated individuals in workforce training and has assisted more than 8,400 of them in accessing post-release employment support in its initial stages. By equipping those behind bars with essential skills and knowledge, the partnership aligns with Texas Governor Greg Abbott's vision to reduce recidivism and enhance community well-being.

Kevin Elder, President of Securus Technologies, expressed his commitment to fostering positive change, stating, "Our ambition is to turn rehabilitation into a lasting transformation, ensuring those who have been incarcerated are prepared for success post-release." The tools developed by this collaboration are designed to bridge the employment gap that returning citizens often face upon exit from the correctional system.

Comprehensive Workforce Development Tools

Workbay, a prominent player in career development, provides a suite of workforce development tools tailored specifically for incarcerated individuals. The training modules cover crucial areas such as:

• - Career Pathway Exploration: With over 2,500 career videos and 1,400 career cards available, participants can learn about various in-demand industries.
• - Employer Engagement and Job Matching: The platform connects inmates with Second Chance employers throughout Texas, facilitating direct job opportunities.
• - Soft Skills and Reentry Training: Modules focusing on job readiness, financial literacy, and effective communication aim to prepare individuals for the workforce.

Mary Hayes, CEO of Workbay, states, "Our mission centers around democratizing employment opportunities for justice-impacted individuals. By collaborating with Securus and TDCJ, we aim to create viable pathways that address skill gaps while enhancing reentry outcomes."

Early Indicators of Success

Initial data reveals positive trends, as incarcerated individuals display increased motivation and readiness for workforce integration thanks to this program. As Texas faces a tightening labor market, the demand for Second Chance hiring is on the rise, and this initiative addresses both workforce shortages and the pressing need for skilled labor.

Amid rising crime concerns and the need to foster safer communities, the timing of this initiative could not be better. By concentrating efforts on reentry and employment, the partnership is positioned to enhance public safety while reintegrating returning citizens more effectively.

Commitment During Second Chance Month

Around the occasion of Second Chance Month, this partnership underscores a growing commitment to rehabilitation and employment opportunities. The collaborative efforts of Securus Technologies and Workbay are producing tangible benefits by reducing recidivism, fostering community safety, and building a robust workforce that contributes to the local economy.

For further details about the programs available through Workbay, you can visit their website at workbay.net. Additionally, information about Securus Technologies and their ongoing commitment to providing second chances can be found at securustech.net.

About Securus Technologies

Based in Plano, Texas, Securus Technologies is a subsidiary of Aventiv Technologies, serving a range of correctional facilities and law enforcement agencies. Established in 1986, Securus has pioneered the introduction of advanced communication and educational technologies, revolutionizing the experience of those incarcerated and enhancing operational efficiency within correctional settings. Their products encompass secure phone and video connections, e-messaging, and a unique corrections-grade tablet that transforms education and reentry resources within the prison system.

About Workbay

Workbay stands as a digital workforce development platform uniquely tailored for incarcerated individuals. Its interactive, video-based courses and career resources are designed to aid users in navigating the challenges of reentry and establishing sustainable employment. This focus on bridging the gap between incarceration and gainful employment is essential for positively impacting justice-impacted individuals and fostering community safety.

By prioritizing the reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals, Securus Technologies and Workbay are setting a precedent in rehabilitation, proving that successful reentry is not just a possibility, but a shared responsibility that benefits everyone.