Career development as a catalyst for change in incarcerated lives

Originally published in Inside INdiana Buisness

The journey of career development within the prison system is not merely a professional endeavor; it is a profound catalyst for personal transformation and societal redemption. As the Business Resource and Outbound Operations Director at a company that works with and employs currently and formerly incarcerated workers, I have been privileged to witness the transformation of individuals society often dismisses. It is my belief that with the right tools, incarcerated individuals can redefine their futures through career development, skill-building, and leadership training.

Society’s narrative around incarcerated individuals is often fraught with misconceptions, focusing on the chapters of their lives that led to imprisonment. Yet, within these individuals lies a wealth of untapped potential. We challenge the status quo by recognizing and nurturing this potential, transforming it into a force for positive change. We must see the possibility for growth, the capacity for learning, and the aspiration for a better life that these individuals have within them.

The Power of Skill-Building

Skill-building is the bedrock upon which a new life is constructed for those behind bars. It transcends the traditional notion of vocational training, encompassing a holistic approach that includes technical skills, soft skills, and emotional intelligence. For incarcerated individuals, these skills are the keys to unlocking a future that once seemed unattainable. They provide a means to not only secure employment upon release but to excel in careers and become contributing members of society.

Career planning is a necessary complement to skill building, and for the incarcerated, it’s not just about job readiness. It’s about instilling a vision for the future and it involves setting goals that may have seemed impossible and charting a course to achieve them. This process is a lifeline that pulls individuals from the depths of despair and gives them a tangible hope to cling to. Within my organization, we facilitate this journey by providing resources, guidance, and the unwavering belief that everyone deserves a chance to craft their own success story.

The Crucial Role of Front-Line Leadership

Leadership development, particularly for middle managers and those on the front lines, is critical. These leaders are the bridge between potential and realization, and with the right resources, they can be mentors who can inspire change and foster a culture of empowerment. This is incredibly important when managing an incarcerated workforce. However, they too require support and investment to hone their skills.

Many companies don’t prioritize leadership development for middle management. I’ve seen situations where people are promoted into positions they are not ready or equipped for without the coaching and support they need to be successful. It’s a recipe for disaster.

In my experience, this leadership development process must start from the bottom up. Organizations must instill leadership qualities in the entire workforce and further develop those employees who have the most leadership potential. It’s important to remember that true leadership exists outside of a person’s ability to manage a team. Leaders must also foster a supportive environment, be willing to help others succeed, and maintain accountability for themselves and those that they work with.

I have mentored individuals within my own organization who have turned into phenomenal leaders post-incarceration. And now that they have the opportunity to lead others, they are paying it forward. When we commit to providing comprehensive training and development to front-line leadership, we not only enhance their ability to lead but also amplify their impact on the individuals they serve and improve their ability to create more leaders.

A Culture of Continuous Learning

A culture of continuous learning is vital in any organization, but it is a must for incarcerated employees. It encourages a mindset of perpetual growth, ensuring that once the foundational skills are acquired, the pursuit of knowledge and self-improvement never ceases. For incarcerated individuals, this culture challenges them to continually reach higher, pushing the boundaries of what they thought possible and fostering a lifelong commitment to personal and professional development.

The empowerment of one individual has the potential to create waves of change. As incarcerated individuals are equipped with skills and a plan for their careers, their success can become a beacon of hope for others. It can inspire families, uplift communities, and ultimately contribute to breaking the cycle of recidivism. The impact of this empowerment extends far beyond individual success; it has the power to reshape society’s narrative around incarceration and redemption.

In Conclusion

The path to redemption through career development is one that offers a second chance at life for incarcerated individuals. It is a journey that requires commitment, resources, and a belief in the power of change. We must understand that our investment in the professional growth of these individuals is an investment in a more equitable and just society. We must honor that investment by developing the middle managers and front-line leaders responsible for helping the incarcerated individuals along that journey of professional growth. Let us continue to champion these efforts, for in the success of the once-incarcerated, we find a reflection of our society’s values and the true measure of our humanity.