Lee State Prison Launches Welding Program

Lee State Prison Launches Inaugural Welding Program

The state’s first Evidence Based Prison partners with Albany Tech

FORSYTH, Ga. – On May 18, Lee State Prison, the state of Georgia’s first Evidence Based Prison, began classes for their inaugural welding program. The class currently has 14 students, but that number is expected to double in size, as potential students undergo the current Technical College System entrance exam (the ACCUPLACER). Lee State Prison is located in Leesburg, GA and houses approximately 720 male offenders.

“Our welding programming has had great success across the state,” said Commissioner Bryson. “We have seen returning citizens receive multiple job offers upon release, and I anticipate the same level of success at Lee State Prison.”

Lee State Prison partnered with Albany Technical College to launch this program. To be considered, offenders must possess a high school diploma, a GED, or be in the process of obtaining a GED.  They must also be within 24 to 60 months of release and have no disciplinary reports within the past 12 months. The class will run anywhere from 15 to 22 weeks and students will be awarded a certificate in welding upon completion.

The GDC has one of the largest prison systems in the U.S. and is responsible for supervising nearly 52,000 state prisoners. It is the largest law enforcement agency in the state with approximately 10,500 employees.

For more information on the GDC call 478-992-5248 or visit gdc.ga.gov.

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