On Friday, April 11, a group of 167 inmates celebrated their accomplishments in various vocational programs, marking a significant increase from the 133 graduates recorded in January. The programs, designed to provide hope and future opportunities, are part of the Mississippi Department of Corrections’ (MDOC) efforts to prepare inmates for employment post-release.
The MDOC established the Vocational Village in 2023, offering programs certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence and the National Center for Construction Education and Research. These initiatives aim to equip inmates with skills for well-paying jobs upon their reintegration into society.
This cohort of graduates earned 216 certifications in fields such as Business Office Technology, ServSafe, ICEV, electrical, HVACR, NCCER Core, heavy equipment, carpentry, and welding. The program operates under the theme “Building a Better Future,” reflecting its mission to provide inmates with new opportunities.
Among the graduates, HVACR participant Tommy Kemp, who is eligible for parole in July, urged his peers to maintain a focus on their futures. Additionally, inmate Clarence Mitchell achieved the distinction of completing three vocational classes—HVAC, Carpentry 1, and Carpentry 2—within a four-month period from January to April. Cpl. Shytel Berry, who supports program initiatives at CMCF, highlighted Mitchell’s dedication, stating, “To be able to apply himself to that many trade classes and succeed just shows how determined he is to change his life and build a better future.”
