Inmate Workforce: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why should inmates be given an opportunity to work?
2. What specific skills do inmates learn working in FPI?
3. Why can't the Bureau of Prisons simply expand its vocational training program?
4. How do I verify the UNICOR employment history of a former inmate?
1. Why should inmates be given an opportunity to work?
It is important to remember, first and foremost, that individuals are sent to prison AS punishment and not FOR punishment. Forcing prisoners to perform harsh, strenuous, and meaningless labor does not meet the goals of a modern correctional system.
Nowhere in Federal law does it provide that offenders should be restricted from meaningful, productive work opportunities as part of their sentence. In fact, Federal statute specifically requires all able-bodied inmates to work in some capacity. Today, prison work is recognized for its rehabilitative potential.
When inmates perform productive work, they acquire marketable skills, ranging from a basic work ethic to trade-specific expertise. These skills improve self-esteem and enhance the prospect for post-release success.
2. What specific skills do inmates learn working in FPI?
In addition to the trade-specific skills listed below, FPI teaches inmates the most marketable skill of all - how to work. No matter what the job, employers seek candidates who possess a basic work ethic, and the FPI program fosters a work environment in which inmate workers learn to be dependable, responsible team players, who take direction from their supervisors and take pride in their accomplishments. A survey by the National Association of Manufacturers indicated that employers place the highest priority on job applicants possessing these basic employability skills.
| Clothing & Textiles
Sewing
Cutting Fabric
Reading Specifications
Reading Contracts
Basic Garment Construction Electronics
Soldering
Electronic Testing
Wire Stripping
Tinning
Rubber Molding Fleet Management
Engine Repair
Forklift Repair
Vehicle Component Repair | General
Clerical (typing/filing)
Basic Accounting
Quality Control Inspection & Testing
Forklift Operation
Building & Equipment Maintenance & Repair
Computer Aided Drafting
Test Lab Functions
Warehouse Operations Industrial Products
Welding
Eyeglass Grinding
Metal Finishing
Cabinetry
Painting
Punch Press Operation
Tool & Die Fabrication | Office Furniture
Carpentry
Woodworking
Milling
Wood Finishing
Upholstery Recycled Electronic Products
Sorting
Computer Identification
Hazardous Material Recognition
Technical Computer Skills
Computer Component Identification Services
Laundry
Word Processing
Data Entry
Packaging
Sorting
Customer Service
Printing Equipment Operation
Screen Printing |
3. Why can't the Bureau of Prisons simply expand its vocational training program?
The Bureau of Prisons is an active supporter of vocational training programs; however, expanding the BOP’s vocational training program is an insufficient substitute for the FPI program for the following reasons:
(1) While vocational training programs offer inmates an opportunity to learn a skill or trade, classroom instruction is no substitute for sustained “live” work experience;
(2) The average sentence length for a federal inmate is 8 years. The average vocational training program duration is 18-24 months. Thus, vocational training must be a complement to, not a substitute for real work; and
(3) FPI does not receive any appropriated funding. To support an expanded vocational training program, the BOP would have to request, from Congress, a significant increase in appropriated funds.
4. How do I verify the UNICOR employment history of a former inmate?
Please contact Steven.Thaler@usdoj.gov and include your name and phone number along with a signed authorization for release of information from the potential employee. You will receive a response within 3 business days.