Vocational Education:

 

The goal of vocational training at Wyoming State Penitentiary (WSP) is to teach skills that can be effectively utilized in obtaining and maintaining jobs upon an inmate's release back into society. WSP trains inmates in areas that will provide a family-sustainable income for the purpose of reducing recidivism.

 

NCCER

 

WSP offers classes based on the core curriculum from the National for Construction Education and Research (NCCER). The NCCER curriculum is taught nationwide by contractors, associations and secondary and post-secondary schools. Currently courses in welding, carpentry and cabinetry are offered through this program at WSP. It consists of classroom time and lab time. Inmates who have earned NCCER certification will be able to find a job in their field much more easily because the certification is recognized nationwide.

 

Welding

 

WSP is the first Wyoming Department of Corrections (WDOC) facility to host the new WDOC Mobile Welding Lab - a converted semi-trailer with five instructional welding booths powered by its own generator. Inmates who are within 18 months of release from the penitentiary are the priority students utilizing the Welding Lab. Those inmates who complete the welding couse offered at WSP will be able to receive a Welding Credential from Central Wyoming College as well as 15 college credit hours. This credential will include a specific process certification that will facilitate job seeking in the welding field upon release.

Woodshop

 

The WSP Woodshop is the laboratory setting for the NCCER Carpentry and Cabinetry programs. Inmates who are within 18 months of release from the penitentiary are the priority students utilizing the Woodshop Lab setting. Student inmates in these programs learn and practice skills in woodworking and construction with NCCER certification in these fields. Additionally, the WSP Woodshop has produced a variety of items including the decorative entry signs leading to the penitentiary. Replicas of wagon styles important to the history of Wyoming and the penitentiary are also displayed on the WSP grounds.

 

Computer Literacy

 

Additionally, WSP offers classes in Computer Literacy, which has become a critical component of success in the new age of computerization. Inmates who successfully complete these classes will be able to appropriately apply their skills in applying for jobs through the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services.

 

CRC

 

WSP also provides inmates the opportunity to acquire a Career Readiness Certificate (CRC). Having the CRC in hand demonstrates that the holder has attained a level of "real world" skills that employers believe are critical for employment success. "Reading for Information" is given to measure communication skills. Problem solving skills are measured through "Applied Mathematics" and "Locating Information". Reasons for working on and accomplishing a CRC are to build confidence in skills and to identify skill areas needing improvement.