A new vocational course at San Quentin seeks 27 dedicated students, according to the prison’s education department.
“This curriculum will ground the trainee in the basic knowledge and principles of carpentry, masonry, concrete finishing, electrical work, HVAC, and plumbing,” said Dante Callegari, instructor of Vocational Building Maintenance. “Students will become skilled in different phases of a project from start to finish.”
Various construction skills taught in the 16-week course include: wall, ceiling, and floor framing; electrical wiring; how to work with concrete; and bricklaying.
The program targets inmates close to release, and according to prison officials, will give them a marketable skill, which improves their employment chances.
The construction technology program will be intense, according to Callegari. It requires a full time assignment. “I don’t need a person who is looking to sign up for the course because he wants time away from his housing unit,” he said.
No previous construction experience is needed, but those interested in signing up for the program must be able to read English and understand elementary math.
Inmates must be eligible for milestones credits to qualify for the program. If eligible, interested inmates should contact their counselor or Lt. Graham.
