The California Prison Industry Authority (CALPIA) is a self-supporting state agency that provides vocational training and employment opportunities for incarcerated people in California's correctional facilities. CALPIA operates a variety of industries within the prisons, including manufacturing, agriculture, and service-based businesses. The goal of CALPIA is to reduce recidivism rates by providing incarcerated people with meaningful job skills and work experience that can lead to employment opportunities after release. The program also generates revenue for the state through the sale of products and services produced by incarcerated folks.
In addition, CALPIA is committed to sustainability and social responsibility. The agency operates several environmentally friendly programs, including recycling initiatives and sustainable farming practices. CALPIA is a second-chance employer. Individuals who have been incarcerated in the past are encouraged to search and apply for positions with CALPIA. CALPIA has hired several former incarcerated individuals with great success.