Inside the walls of Nevada’s only women’s prison, a new job-training program is changing the lives of incarcerated women. Previously, the only training program available to them was in cosmetology. However, a recent addition to the facility is an HVAC laboratory, offering heating, ventilation, and air conditioning training to female inmates.
This HVAC program, the first of its kind at the Florence McClure Women’s Correctional Center, is supported by a significant grant from T-Mobile and provided by the College of Southern Nevada. For the 12 inmates selected for the inaugural class, this opportunity represents a significant shift in gender norms and a chance for a new beginning.
Incarcerated HVAC student Karen Kincaid, 58, expressed her emotional journey of turning her life around through this program. Similarly, student Kaitlyn Fugate, 24, emphasized that given the knowledge, she can accomplish anything a man can do, challenging societal norms and discrimination.
The program aims to provide diverse opportunities for female offenders, breaking away from the notion that certain jobs are limited based on gender. Associate Warden Gabriela Najera highlighted the importance of offering vocational training traditionally reserved for men to female inmates.
In a male-dominated industry like HVAC, female students like Gabrielle Moore, 32, find empowerment in their minority status, recognizing the value of diversity in the workforce. Despite societal challenges and biases, these women are determined to excel in the program and pursue careers in HVAC.
The program’s success is also attributed to the support from T-Mobile, providing essential funding for equipment and resources needed for training. With less than 10 percent of Nevada’s prison population being women, female inmates receive limited resources, making initiatives like the HVAC program crucial for their rehabilitation and future employment opportunities.
Looking beyond the prison walls, the College of Southern Nevada aims to equip these women with skills that will help them secure jobs and prevent recidivism. The program manager, Genevieve Minter, emphasized the importance of investing in female offenders to provide them with alternative pathways upon release.
Despite challenges such as limited job opportunities for convicted felons, the program has garnered support from organizations like Women in HVACR and Hope for Prisoners, offering resources and guidance to students post-release. As Las Vegas faces a demand for HVAC technicians, the program graduates are well-positioned to find employment in a high-demand field.
The students selected for the program understand the significance of their role as pioneers and strive to set a positive example for future classes. Compliance with program rules and regulations is crucial for their continued participation, emphasizing their commitment to personal growth and success.
The HVAC program at the Florence McClure Women’s Correctional Center is not just about vocational training; it represents a chance for incarcerated women to redefine their futures and break barriers in male-dominated industries. Through determination, resilience, and community support, these women are paving the way for a brighter tomorrow beyond prison walls.
