A Second Chance with Purpose
Tennessee Pilot Program Builds Pathways from Incarceration to Industry
A groundbreaking pilot program in Tennessee is proving that second chances and workforce solutions can go hand-in-hand. Through a powerful collaboration between Orijin, ToolingU-SME, Smith County Jail, the Upper Cumberland Local Workforce Development Board, The University of Tennessee Center for Industrial Services (UT CIS), and the Tennessee Office of Reentry, lives are being changed—and critical workforce gaps are being filled.
Opening Doors Through Education and Opportunity
At the heart of this initiative is a commitment to reimagining reentry. The pilot program gives incarcerated individuals the opportunity to earn their SME Certified Manufacturing Associate credential, a valuable certification that aligns with real industry needs—particularly in manufacturing, where an aging workforce has created urgent demand for skilled talent.
Participants complete 25 one-hour courses covering essential manufacturing topics like CNC machining, robotics, safety procedures, and quality control. The program wraps up with a proctored certification exam, delivered securely through Orijin’s Managed Learning Platform, ensuring accessibility even behind the wall.
Support Every Step of the Way
The program is not just about coursework—it’s about creating a supportive, empowering environment that prepares learners for life beyond incarceration. Key features of the program include:
Workforce-Ready Skills: Custom-developed training from the Upper Cumberland Workforce Board and the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development helps learners build the soft and technical skills needed to succeed.
Comprehensive Support: Partners like Adult Education and Title I programs provide wraparound support, while Orijin offers personalized motivation and guidance to keep learners engaged and focused.
Hands-On Learning: UT CIS brings real-world relevance through expert-led sessions and simulations that prepare participants for the challenges and expectations of today’s manufacturing jobs.
A Model for the Future
While this pilot currently serves learners in the Smith County jail, its potential is far greater. The program is designed as a scalable model—one that could be replicated across Tennessee and nationwide to support justice-impacted individuals while helping industries meet their workforce demands. Combining education, workforce readiness, and collaborative efforts, will not just fill workforce gaps- it will build brighter futures, strengthen communities, and set a new standard for reentry programs.
What’s Next?
The vision doesn’t stop here. Plans are underway to expand the program statewide and connect more directly with local employers, ensuring that certification leads to real employment opportunities. Together, we’re breaking barriers, unlocking potential, and proving that with the right support, justice-impacted individuals can thrive—and make a lasting impact on Tennessee’s workforce.
Employers across the Upper Cumberland are encouraged to join this transformative initiative. By partnering to hire certified, justice-impacted individuals, businesses gain access to skilled, job-ready talent while investing in the long-term strength of the regional workforce. These individuals are equipped with industry-recognized credentials and are ready to contribute meaningfully from day one.County jails throughout the Upper Cumberland are also encouraged to consider implementing similar reentry programs. For facilities interested in launching reentry initiatives, support is available. Workforce and community partners are ready to assist with the tools, resources, and guidance needed to successfully replicate this model. By working together, the region can reduce recidivism, close workforce gaps, and create new pathways to success—for individuals, employers, and communities alike.
Executive Director, Becky Hull, pictured with the program’s recent graduates.
