Wabash Valley Correctional Facility

Ivy Tech Community College and Wabash Valley Correctional Facility (WVCF) are excited to share the news that both Welding and Computerized Numerical Control (CNC) classes have resumed for Level 1 offenders.  The classes began as part of the Governor's initiative to provide incarcerated individuals with the skills necessary for gainful employment upon release.  

Both parties believe that in order for an individual to be successful they need a financial means by which they can provide not only for themselves, but for their families as well.  The skills they acquire through Ivy Tech can provide them with just that.

Ivy Tech Assistant Professor of Welding Aaron McCollum said, "This is a way for them to get their foot in the door." 

When we first spoke with Brandon McKnight he said, "I'm picking up a new trade helping me and helping my family.  I won't have to go back to what I used to be."  Brandon has now graduated the Welding Program.


Ivy Tech Machine Tool Technology Program Chair Marquis Songer said, "I have employers from all over calling me constantly needing skilled CNC machinist, operators and set-up technicians."

Michael Dye is currently enrolled in the CNC program at Ivy Tech.  When we spoke with him he said, "We all make mistakes.  It's what we do after that, and what we learn from it."


Since the partnership between Ivy Tech and WVCF began in 2018 there have been 67 offenders to graduate the Welding Program and 32 offenders graduate the CNC Program.  That's 99 individuals who have acquired a skill set that has the potential to change not only their future, but also the future of those around them.  

The IDOC's Mission is to promote public safety by providing meaningful, effective opportunities for successful re-entry.  Ivy Tech's vision is for economic transformation inspired by the education and earnings attainment of Indiana citizens, the vitality of Indiana's workforce, and the prosperity of our unique and diverse communities.  Together, IDOC and Ivy Tech are working to ensure that those who successfully complete the programs are prepared to contribute to their communities upon release.

Welding Cohort #8 graduated on Thursday, June 24.  CNC Cohort # 6 is scheduled to graduate on Thursday, July 29.  

​Wabash Valley Correctional Facility 

CARLISLE, Ind.- The WILL Center and Wabash Valley Correctional Facility (WVCF) are working together to help those in need. 

​The WILL Center focuses on empowering people with disabilities, by ensuring they have access to community resources.  One of the ways they do so, is by providing ramps.  Applicants submit a physician's statement along with their application, and if approved, receive a ramp at no cost.

With the assistance of WVCF, The WILL Center has been able to provide 200 ramps since the Summer of 2014.

"The partnership with WVCF is invaluable to The WILL Center and our consumers in our coverage area.  We are only able to do these builds, because of donations to purchase materials and the help of WVCF and our build volunteers," said William Caldero the Independent Living/Ramp Program Coordinator for The WILL Center.  

Offender Daniel Persinger has worked in the Carpenter's Shop at WVCF for almost two years.  He worked construction prior to his incarceration, but says that he has gained skills that he believes will help him when he returns to society. 

"The reason I enjoy doing the ramps, is because it helps those in need. To see there are people out there who care makes me happy. I enjoy giving back to the community," he said.