Workforce Development
Workforce Development
The Utah Department of Corrections partners with employers, educators, and community organizations to prepare individuals in our custody for meaningful, lasting employment after release.
Through vocational training, industry-recognized credentials, and direct employer partnerships, we help build the skills and connections that make a successful return to the workforce possible.
Our approach is rooted in the belief that a good job is one of the strongest predictors of a safe, successful reentry — for the individual, their family, and the community they return to.
Why partner with us?
Utah businesses thrive when everyone has a chance to contribute. Our workforce programs connect local employers with motivated, pre-screened candidates equipped with industry training and a strong work ethic.
The data speaks for itself:
- 85 percent of Human Resource leaders say fair-chance hires perform as well as or better than traditional hires (SHRM).
- 82 percent higher long-term retention compared to peers with no record (Management Science Study).
- 99 percent success rate across federally bonded fair-chance hires (U.S. Dept. of Labor).
- Up to $2,400 in federal tax savings per eligible employee (WOTC).
Key Highlights:
- Trained & Work-Ready Candidates: Job seekers receive practical vocational preparation aligned with industry needs.
- Financial Incentives: Learn about available programs such as the Federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) and the Federal Bonding Program.
- Higher Retention: Studies show that fair-chance hires often demonstrate higher job loyalty and lower turnover.
- Community Impact: Help strengthen Utah’s economy and improve public safety by opening doors to meaningful employment.
Successful reentry requires a team effort. Whether you represent a community organization, a government agency, or a local business, many collaboration opportunities exist to expand pathways to success.
Ways to Engage:
- Become an Employer Partner: Commit to fair-chance hiring and gain access to our talent pool.
- Community Partnerships: Link your support services (housing, healthcare, transport) to our job seekers.
- Advocate & Support: Learn how policymakers and community leaders can champion workforce development programs.
Contact our Workforce Development & Partnerships Manager (information below) for more details.
The Hive
The Hive is a multi-agency initiative whose mission is to bridge the gap between businesses and justice-involved talent by functioning as a collaborative one-stop shop for career education and support.
By partnering with employers to provide vetted candidates and seamless hiring solutions, we empower individuals to achieve lasting career success through dedicated follow-through, shared resources, and trusted community coordination.
The Hive is designed to change how Utah businesses find and keep a talent pipeline, but it’s not just for filling open roles. It acts as a true collaborative, a space to openly discuss hurdles, share successes, and work through roadblocks together.
Our Support System
Real People. Real Progress. Real Impact.
Contact Our Workforce Team
Have questions about our programs, upcoming events, or how to get involved? Reach out to our workforce team directly.
