(BOP) - On October 10, 2019, Federal Prison Industries (FPI) held its inaugural Manufacturing Day event to highlight the importance of correctional industries and the manufacturing career opportunities available to our inmate workforce, post-incarceration. FPI also commemorated their 85th Anniversary during the event. Since 1934, FPI (trade name UNICOR) has provided federal offenders with work experience, job training, and life skills to enhance the likelihood they will find meaningful employment upon release and become law-abiding citizens.
Federal Bureau of Prisons Director Kathleen Hawk Sawyer, who also serves as FPI's Commissioner, spoke about the history of Manufacturing Day and also noted that as one of the Bureau's most important reentry programs, UNICOR has been "Life Changing" for countless numbers of inmates. She stated, "FPI remains committed to its time-tested manufacturing programs and will be expanding their availability so more offenders that are eligible have the opportunity to participate." Federal Prison Industries CEO, Patrick O'Connor, spoke about the many benefits of FPI and its overall mission and impact of the program.
In celebration of FPI's 85th Anniversary, several events highlighting new initiatives have been held throughout the year. One such initiative, the Inmate Creative Expressions Essay Contest, generated over 115 submissions from inmates working in UNICOR. The top three essays were read during the Manufacturing Day program and on display for the remainder of the event. In an expo style set-up, a variety of FPI products and services in the business areas of Agribusiness, Clothing and Textiles, Electronics, Fleet, Office Furniture, Recycling and Services were also on display. Federal government employees and invited guests were provided tours showcasing FPI's manufacturing operations.