Inaugural MDOC Youth Career Academy is Underway

Whitmore Lake, MI - Cadets from around the state are participating in the first ever MDOC Youth Career Academy at the Green Oaks Training and Professional Development Center. The career academy offers 15-20-year-olds exposure to corrections careers, with instruction from MDOC professionals.

The program is a new effort by the department to inform high school and college aged Michiganders about the variety of careers available across operations, including corrections officers, healthcare professionals, food service staff, parole and probation staff, maintenance staff, and more.

"We are proud to offer young people this free opportunity to learn about corrections from some of our best professionals," said Director Heidi E. Washington. "Cadets are getting exposure to practical skills, teambuilding activities, and learning about the range of opportunities a career with the department has to offer."

Participants are gaining exposure to activities typically required in an officer recruit academy like CPR, first aid, restraints training, and self-defense. MDOC specialty units like Absconder Recovery, Transportation, Honor Guard, and Emergency Response Team are offering sessions to the cadets as well as visits from the director, deputy directors, field operations leaders, and wardens.

Richard Barr, human resources manager and a lead organizer of the academy said "This experience is a valuable tool to offer youth a look at what our department actually does. Many times, because of its nature, the day-to-day of corrections work remains a mystery to the public. Participants have been given exposure to the many opportunities this career path has to offer."

On Friday, June 26 cadets will complete their experience and graduate from the career academy. A ceremony will be held to recognize their achievement.

On July 20, the next officer recruit training academy will begin both at Green Oaks and at the Northern Region Training Center in Kincheloe. The recruitment unit is now reviewing applications, hosting hiring events, and attending community events in preparation for the next class. Interested individuals are encouraged to apply online or attend an upcoming hiring event.

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