Inmates at Soledad Correctional Training Facility graduate with job certification certificates

SOLEDAD, Calif. (KION-TV)- On Tuesday afternoon, KION got a rare look at a program that is changing the lives of inmates at Soledad Correctional Training Facility.

The California Prison Industry Authority (CALPIA) held a ceremony for nearly 100 inmates who earned recognized job certifications or apprenticeships.

"I am never coming back to this place," Timothy Jackson who graduated from the program said. "It's, significantly important because, you know, like, I think the perspective of our rehabilitation sometimes is just misunderstood."

Jackson served his time since 2017 and graduated from the Healthcare Facilities Maintenance Program.

Demarie Mackey says the program has changed his life for the better.

"“None of us are in here for being good, so we can always find things that are negative to get into, but to be able to have places like PIA, that foster, that want to be able to strive for success, to be able to move forward in society is definitely a godsend," Mackey said.

CALPIA officials said volunteers are in need at the moment. For more information, click here.