Texas – The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) has successfully launched its new High Voltage Training Program, aimed at teaching inmates and agency technicians essential skills for safely working on medium and high voltage electrical lines.
Led by the TDCJ Facilities Division, the program focuses on proper wire handling and electrical safety. Ron Hudson, Facilities Division Director, highlighted the dual benefits of the initiative: “This High Voltage Training program reflects our commitment to providing inmates with job skills while simultaneously enhancing the expertise of our technicians. We believe that providing inmates with valuable trade skills like these significantly increases their likelihood of successful reintegration into society and reduces recidivism.”
The curriculum was developed and delivered by certified professionals from the Institute for Safety in Powerline Construction. Participants who complete the program receive certification.
The training began with a four-day session at the Ellis Unit, including hands-on work at the Wynne and Wainwright Units, involving eight male inmates and seven technicians. A separate session for female inmates was held at the Hilltop Unit with five inmates and twelve technicians.
Inmates must be classified as outside trusties and assigned to regional maintenance to qualify.
Inmate lineman Bradley Wehnes spoke about the program’s value: “People are more likely to stay out of trouble if they’ve got a job that is a trade that you can actually get out and build a career on. It provides a sense of accomplishment.”
TDCJ plans to expand the program in the next fiscal year, offering more training opportunities and further supporting inmate rehabilitation.
