SCP Texarkana Inmates Take Big Steps Toward Reentry At Career Fair

On July 17, 2025, eight inmates from SCP Texarkana participated in a unique and highly successful furlough opportunity to attend a local Career Fair at Texarkana College. Participants joined other community job seekers and engaged with over 40 local employers.

In a notable departure from typical furloughs, the men attended in civilian attire—polo style shirts and blue jeans—provided through community partnerships, helping to foster a professional and approachable environment for networking.

Upon arrival, the group participated in a resume-building workshop led by the college staff. Within 30 minutes, each individual had a completed resume and copies for distribution. Drawing on marketable skills acquired during their incarceration, including CDL, Welding, and HVAC certifications, the men actively networked with employers in their respective fields.

The event proved fruitful for several participants. One CDL-certified inmate assigned to the UNICOR recycling detail, spoke with recruiters from a recycling business. His practical experience from delivering scrap metal to local plants garnered strong interest from the company. Furthermore, three other inmates secured strong leads with a tire manufacturer and a local production facility, highlighting the immediate impact of their participation.

This successful outing underscores the diligent efforts of FCI Texarkana staff in preparing individuals in their care and custody for a successful reentry. The Career Fair served as a meaningful platform for these men to develop viable career plans prior to their release from custody, showcasing the positive impact of community partnerships and rehabilitative programming.

Submitted by James Schopper, Executive Assistant, FCI Texarkana