Inmates at Montana State Prison Celebrate Graduation from Automotive Technology Program

DEER LODGE, MT — A graduation ceremony held at Montana State Prison (MSP) today marked a significant achievement for five inmates who received their certificates in automotive technology from Helena College. This cohort represents the third group of students to complete the Certificate of Applied Science program at MSP, a collaborative effort aimed at reducing recidivism and fostering workforce reentry.

Director Brian Gootkin of the Montana Department of Corrections emphasized the program’s impact, stating, “At the Montana Department of Corrections, it is our goal to ensure the people leaving our facilities have the skills to pursue highly marketable careers in in-demand industries. Today’s graduates have done the work to put themselves on the right path to build successful futures in the community.”

The Prison Education Program, which supported the inmates’ education, has evolved from the well-known Second Chance Pell Grant program. Federal financial aid through Pell Grants, once unavailable to incarcerated individuals, now plays a crucial role in facilitating these educational opportunities. Besides Helena College, other institutions such as Great Falls College, Montana State University Billings, and Dawson Community College are also participating in offering postsecondary instruction to inmates in conjunction with DOC.

The course combined classroom lectures delivered via smart boards and other technology, with hands-on learning. DOC staff provided onsite support for the practical components of the automotive program.

Quinn Jessen, one of the graduates, shared his transformative experience: “I came in here as a criminal and now I’m leaving with a career, a career to be able to build a life that I wouldn’t be able to do as a criminal. Fortunately, through the DOC, in collaboration with Helena College, I’ll be able to have a career that will carry me through the rest of my life and support my family as well.”

Sandra Bauman, the Dean/CEO of Helena College, also attended the ceremony to present the certificates. Bauman reflected on the broader mission of the initiative, noting, “At Helena College, we believe in the power of education to transform lives. We’re proud of our MSP graduates and the hard work they’ve put in to reach this milestone. As they take the next step, we look forward to seeing them use their new skills as they reenter their communities.”