(BOP) - Last year, 53 out of 57 inmates enrolled in the building trades program at the Federal Correctional Institution, Phoenix, Arizona, passed the Vocational Training (VT) exam provided by the National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI); this is a higher passing rate than the national average!
Through 240 hours of coursework, inmates learn a variety of skills that can lead to high paying jobs in the community, including careers in carpentry, electrical, and plumbing. Students who pass the NOCTI test are placed in a national registry database with the Home Builders Association that enables future employers to verify individual's credentials when he or she is applying for employment. The registry also allows individuals to post a resume online that will reach a national audience of future employers (inmates have access to this service after release to the community).
Inmate Jardon Laforcarde, noted that the training improves job prospects because of "the amount of hands on experience we receive and receiving an industry recognized certificate." VT Instructor Joe Kavenaugh is certified to proctor exams through the National Home Builders Association and National Occupational Career Training Institute. His certification, advanced skills, and expertise has a positive impact on this reentry VT program.