Corrections_Today_January_February_2024_Vol.86_No.1

O n November 6, 2023, five deserving incarcerated women were given the opportunity to transform their lives. This is the first-time virtual reality training has ever been offered in a correctional facility. These women were presented with certificates documenting their completion of the Vehicles for Change Virtual Reality (VFC-VR) auto mechanics training program. Founder and President of Vehicles for Change, Martin Schwartz said, “this graduation marks the turning point in this country to offer automotive training to incarcerated individuals, giving them the opportunity to rebuild their lives upon release.” But what does this achievement truly mean for these women? It represents a chance at redemption, a pathway to self-improvement and the prospect of reentering into society with valuable skills. Their stories, shared in their own voices, echoed with immense gratitude, underscoring the impact this training has had on their lives. One of the graduates, known as “CB,” revealed, “The virtual reality training has been an amazing experience. Knowing I had six weeks of training made me focused and determined to improve.” This inaugural class of five incarcerated women is not just a local success story; it marks the nationwide launch of VFC-VR training programs within correctional facilities. VFC-VR uses virtual reality to offer cutting edge, immersive technology to equip individuals with the necessary skills they need to launch a career in the automotive industry. There is currently a significant need for automotive mechanics, with over 300,000 positions waiting to be filled nationwide. “Our goal is to have this program implemented in every prison system in the United States,” said Martin. The impact of this program goes beyond the individual level; it resonates within the entire correctional system. Plans are underway to expand the reach of VR training programs into correctional institutions nationwide. This system can be implemented in any correctional facility in the country. The program features a state of-the-art virtual garage and an interactive curriculum created by master technicians and instructors. Students embark on a 5-stage training process that teaches profi ciency in performing general maintenance including oil changes, how to use an auto lift and tire mounting and balancing.

Equipped with newfound confidence, these graduates successfully completed the intensive six-week program, gaining essential skills that will enable them to obtain an entry-level position in the automotive industry upon their release. They are also invited to enter the VFC Full Circle Training Program, an advanced, paid internship for additional training and job placement with our employer partners. Interns that complete our advanced training have an average salary of $40,000.

Plans are underway to expand the reach of VR training programs into correctional institutions nationwide.

Perhaps most importantly, the VFC-VR program VFC’s goal is to focus on lowering recidivism across the country and provide career pathways for individuals who may not have otherwise had access to such equitable opportunities. The recent graduation ceremony of the Vehicles for Change VR Program at MCIW was particularly unique because it involved these women embarking on a career path in a traditionally male-dominated automotive indus try. With their new skill set, they are prepared not just to pursue fulfilling careers but also to contribute to breaking gender barriers within the automotive mechanic field. Their success serves as an inspiration, paving the way for more women to make advancements in this industry. A new group of five women at MCIW will began the VFC-VR training program on Monday, November 13, 2023. For more information about the VFC-VR program, please contact Geoff Crawford, Vice President of VR at gcrawford@vehiclesforchange.org or call (410) 242-9674.

Lori Connolly is the Director of Marketing & Communications at Vehicles for Change.

Corrections Today January/February 2024 — 35