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Florida Department of Corrections: Investing in Technology for Reentry Success

“Florida’s expansive job market is facing a critical shortage of skilled workers. The Florida Department of Corrections is addressing this challenge by leveraging technology to equip individuals transitioning from custody with the tools and trainings needed to succeed in today’s workforce.”.

By Erica Averion, Executive Director, Florida Foundation for Correctional Excellence (FFCE)

 

The Florida Department of Corrections (FDC), with support from their DSO (direct support organization) Florida Foundation for Correctional Excellence (FFCE), is revolutionizing reentry strategies by investing in innovative technology. These initiatives focus on leveling the playing field for returning citizens, ensuring they have the tools to succeed in modern job markets.

Bridging the Employment Gap with DTEN Technology

In June 2023, FDC launched an initiative to equip facilities statewide with DTEN all-in-one video conferencing monitors and Zoom licenses. This technology fosters employment engagement, education, and community collaboration. Noelle Manasco, Associate Director at FFCE, highlights how these tools create tangible outcomes: “The DTEN usage metrics help us identify success stories and share best practices across facilities. This level of collaboration is possible due to these investments.”

One success story is Casey Lowe, a former inmate at Everglades Correctional Institution. While participating in a wastewater management program, Casey expressed interest in the field during a Compass 100 graduation ceremony. His educator arranged a virtual interview with Pinellas County Wastewater, facilitated by the DTEN monitor. Casey was offered a position as a Wastewater Operator Trainee, which transformed his reentry experience.

“Securing employment before release allowed me to reintegrate into society without relying on family or friends,” Casey shared. “The DTEN interview made me feel normal again and gave me hope that my past wouldn’t define me.” Casey is now on track to earn his Class C Wastewater Operator license, exemplifying how technology bridges barriers and humanizes the reentry process.

Coding for a Better Future: Persevere’s Impact

In December 2024, Florida celebrated the graduation of its first two coding cohorts through Persevere, a nonprofit transforming lives through technology education. This program, operating at Wakulla and Lowell Correctional Institutions, equips participants with six industry-recognized certifications, preparing them for high-paying careers post-release.

Persevere’s innovative model has a proven track record. Over 70% of graduates secure employment, and the program maintains a recidivism rate below 3%, far outperforming the national average. Participants gain valuable skills while building pathways to economic independence. Sean Hosman, Persevere’s Founder, emphasized the significance of FDC’s partnership: “Seeing our cohorts graduate demonstrates the transformative power of investing in people and their potential.”

The program’s success reflects FDC’s commitment to increasing public safety through education and workforce development. By supporting initiatives like Persevere, FDC empowers those in its custody to successfully return to society, contribute in a meaningful way to their communities, and meet the needs of the modern workforce.

A Shared Commitment to Opportunity Zones

These technological advancements represent more than tools; they create opportunity zones for returning citizens. FFCE and FDC’s collaboration underscores a shared vision of fostering pathways to success. Erica Averion, FFCE’s Executive Director, notes, “Our work demonstrates what happens when we provide the right tools and opportunities to those ready to rebuild their lives.”

Through strategic investments in technology and education, FDC and FFCE are setting a standard for reentry innovation, proving that with the right support, returning citizens can thrive.

For more information about FFCE and its initiatives, visit www.flcorrectionalexcellence.com. To learn more about Persevere, visit www.perseverenow.org

© 2024 by Florida Technology Council.

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