Dive Brief:

• Edward Roberson, a 58-year old former inmate in Iowa’s correctional system is an example of reform that’s gone well. On behalf of many who have completed their sentences, he says, “It should be known that we're positive and we've turned our lives around and we want to be productive." Yet, Mr. Roberson has struggled to find gainful employment since his 2013 release because of outdated job skills.

• The Des Moines – Quad City Times reports that a new program will automatically grant certificates of employability for inmates who have demonstrated learning and work skills while behind bars, hopefully opening up more doors of opportunities to those who deserve a second-chance.

• The Founder and Director of Iowa Job Honor Awards, a nonprofit that connects employers with disadvantaged job seekers, advises that the new program will help, but that additional education of employers needs to take place. Currently, there are some 8,000 men and women behind bars in Iowa, with 90% expected to be released someday, so jobs and adequate job training are badly needed to help them get back on their feet. 

Dive Insight:

This initiative opened up minds to reform in other areas – including the process that inmates have had to go through to prove they have marketable employable skills. The state Board of Parole and Department of Corrections are working to change state codes to allow inmates to automatically earn certificates of employability by the time they complete their sentences. This could ease their transition back into society as they will have more career opportunities.

On top of an apprenticeship program that helps Iowa’s inmates learn job-related skills, they have access to high school diploma and GED programs, as well as college level degree-earning opportunities. Sandra Smith, director of correctional education for the DOC, says that this represents a chance for inmates to demonstrate to potential employers that, “This is how I've utilized my time. So now in returning to the community, I am ready and have been provided an opportunity and this is my skill set and I'm employable.”

The next piece in the puzzle is to educate employers about the value of the certificates, and provide incentives and support so that they feel comfortable hiring former inmates. This could be a win-win for many, given shortages in the current talent market in certain skillsets.