I first heard about ACI while in county jail. Everybody that had previously been to prison all talked about ACI retention jobs. From that point forward I made up my mind that I was going to pursue that opportunity as soon as I had the chance. My chance finally came after stepping down to a minimum yard. My whole goal was to be able to save some money for when I get released so I am not so dependent on my family and friends, which will make it easier to transition back into society. An ACI retention job was the only path to achieve all the things I was searching for. 

My opportunity finally came about a year and a half ago when I started working at Right Away Disposal (RAD). Since I was a general contractor prior to getting locked up I didn’t know a lot about a recycling plant, but I asserted myself to learn as much as possible. With the help of ACI and the partnership with Right Away Disposal, I have learned how to repair and maintain conveyer systems. I have learned shipping and receiving, managing product and the quality assurance of the product. I have been certified on how to safely operate several types of heavy equipment. So, ACI has given me the opportunity to put myself in a better spot upon my release with a new set of skills and possibly future employment with those new skills. I am very thankful for what ACI has allowed me to do and giving me the tools to succeed in the future.