Today, during quarterly training, Ingram State had the opportunity to present the inaugural Diesel Mechanic Apprenticeship program. The program is a partnership with the Alabama Department of Corrections, Alabama Office of Apprenticeships, and FourStar Freightliner. During the presentation, #ISTC administrators spoke about the three-year journey establishing the program and how the process works.

To conclude the presentation, Ingram State’s first apprentice, Prince Jenkins, provided a personal testimony of how this program has helped shape his future. All eyes were on Mr. Jenkins as he told his story and explained how his education provided an avenue for him that he never thought was possible. He continued to explain how the apprenticeship program provides justice-involved individuals a path into the workforce where the stereotypes and negative stigmas are left at the door.

This would not be possible without the partnership with the ADOC, AOA, and FourStar Freightliner. This apprenticeship is one of the few, possibly only, certified apprenticeships where incarcerated individuals can gain an education and work with an in-field employer prior to an individual’s transition back into society.