Austin Community College District (ACC) partners with the Travis County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO) to create a customized pathway for Travis County Correctional Complex inmates. The program, launched in October, aims to equip participants with the skills necessary to secure meaningful employment upon release, ultimately helping to reduce recidivism rates.
“By creating opportunities to learn new skills, we are opening doors to second chances,” says ACC Chancellor Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart. “This program represents a significant step forward in transforming lives through education. When people can access the skills they need to find meaningful work, it helps break the cycle of incarceration and gives them a better chance to contribute positively to society.”
Through ACC’s Office Administration & Technology Department and Continuing Education Department, the program offers instruction in basic computer skills tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals in TCSO custody.
Classes occur in a specially equipped classroom at the Travis County Correctional Complex. TCSO set up the classroom with computers and ACC will provide qualified instructors to deliver the training.
“I’m so excited about this partnership. We know that when people leave our custody, being able to get a job and be a success is very challenging,” says Travis County Sheriff Sally Hernandez. This gives them something to build on. People with a career, people with hope, people with vision don’t come back to the Travis County Jail. It’s important to us to invest now so that people have a big chance.”
This initiative lays a foundation for jobs that offer higher wages and greater stability by giving participants the tools to understand essential software, navigate the digital world, and perform administrative tasks.
“Programs like this play a critical role in addressing recidivism, a significant challenge in the criminal justice system. Providing access to education while incarcerated reduces the likelihood of reoffending,” says Deborah Benavidez, professor of Business Office Technology. “Providing skills-based training and job placement support helps individuals transition more successfully back into the community, where they can find sustainable employment and build a productive life.”
The first cohort is expected to complete their program in January.
For more information on the Office Administration & Technology program at ACC, click here.
ACC also partners with the Lockhart Correctional Facility to provide inmates with customized training and certification in several programs, which include Certified Production Technician, Certified Logistics Technician, and Welding Technician.