Monroe County Sheriff's Office Partners with Tech Educator Orijin for Inmate Workforce Development Program in Tennessee
- Heather Harman
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
In a recent social media announcement, Monroe County Sheriff's Office shared its inclusion in a workforce development initiative with tech education provider Orijin, supported by the State of Tennessee. Sheriff Tommy Jones made the revelation, stating that the Monroe County Sheriff's Office Detention Facility will serve as the site for this pilot initiative, set to kick off on January 1, 2026, according to a post on their Facebook page.
The program will introduce inmates to the Interplay Premium Pathway Programs, encompassing Industrial & Manufacturing Technician Skills, Marketing, and Information Technology (IT). Tailored to equip participants with the necessary skills to obtain industry-recognized credentials like NATE Ready to Work, OSHA 10, and EPA 608 certifications, the initiative targets propelling individuals into sustainable employment by reducing recidivism. Given the Detention Facility's robust record of completed courses, certifications earned, and learner engagement, the Sheriff's office stated, it was hailed as an ideal choice for this pilot.
The self-paced nature of the program promotes an efficient learning environment, requiring minimal additional personnel. Scheduled to span four months from January through April of 2026, its performance could potentially pave the way for more expansive similar courses. "Our partnership with Orijin and the State of Tennessee helps showcase what’s possible when we invest in the future of our inmates by providing them with real, attainable career opportunities," declared Sheriff Jones.
Orijin's mission is tailored to assist people affected by the justice system by offering educational resources aimed at assisting them in starting fresh once sentences are served. They emphasize creating a pathway between correctional technological services, employer recruitment pipelines, and the achievement of sustainable employment for learners. Reflecting on Orijin's vision, "The end of your sentence is where the new story starts," Sheriff Jones echoed the significance of the collaborative effort. It hopes to result in fewer crime victims down the line by preparing inmates thoroughly for post-incarceration life. This approach was recently detailed on the Monroe County Sheriff's Facebook page.
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