We train Missourians to enter the workforce.
The Department of Corrections Division of Offender Rehabilitative Services facilitates career and technical educational training inside state prisons to equip Missourians for post-incarceration careers.
Apprenticeships
The department offers 56 certified apprenticeship programs to incarcerated Missourians.
Each month more than 1,100 residents of Missouri state prisons work in Missouri Vocational Enterprises (MVE) jobs, with more than 550 enrolled in U.S. Department of Labor-certified apprenticeships that help prepare them for in-demand jobs. MVE operates 21 industries in 12 correctional centers, fostering personal responsibility, developing transferable skills and increasing employability during incarceration and after release.
In 2024, Western Reception, Diagnostic & Correctional Center (WRDCC) in St. Joseph became home to the nation’s first licensed tattoo artist apprenticeship program to operate inside a prison. Residents with artistic talent and motivation to succeed complete 300 hours of training, plus CPR and bloodborne-pathogen certifications, to become licensed tattoo artists. After completing the apprenticeship, they tattoo peer clients in an on-site studio run by a vocational instructor and tattoo artist and then can practice their craft professionally upon release. The program cuts down on the spread of diseases that can happen through unapproved, non-sterile tattoo methods; incentivizes good behavior among prospective trainees and tattoo clients; and equips participants for post-incarceration careers. A second tattoo studio opened inside Algoa Correctional Center in Jefferson City in 2026.
In 2026, Missouri Governor’s Mansion trustees from Algoa Correctional Center (ACC) earned a claim to the title chef de partie when Missouri kicked off a new U.S. Department of Labor-certified hospitality apprenticeship at the mansion. The Missouri Department of Corrections long has cultivated a partnership wherein ACC residents with work-release qualifications hold paid positions in the Mansion, working in hospitality roles while also earning ServSafe certification through the National Restaurant Association. Now incarcerated mansion workers can complete a hotel and restaurant cook certified apprenticeship program developed with the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development (DHEWD) and the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL).
Career & Tech Programs
Automotive Technology
This introductory class looks at the drivability of a car-the operating systems of automobiles, including electrical, ignition, steering and suspension systems; alignments; engine repair; brakes; manual drive trains and axles; automatic transmission and transaxle; ventilation and HVAC systems; hybrid vehicles.
Course Length: Up to 540 hours
Locations: Algoa Correctional Center, Jefferson City; Northeast Correctional Center, Bowling Green
Certifications: Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair (ASE MLR) certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)
Barbering
In this full licensure program, students complete 1,000 hours of study during a period of six months or longer. Offering a combination of classroom work and hands-on training, the program covers precision haircutting, color and texture; skincare, shaving and grooming; and the personal and business skills needed to build a career.
Course Length: 1,000 hours
Locations: Algoa Correctional Center, Jefferson City
Certifications: Barbering Licensure
Basic Welding
Beginning with the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) core curriculum, students acquire fundamental knowledge in areas such as safety, construction math, hand and power tools, construction drawings, rigging communication, and materials handling. As they progress to Level One Welding, they explore oxy-fuel cutting, base metal preparations, welding quality, equipment setup, shield metal arc electrodes, bead welding, joint fit-up, alignment, groove welds with backing, and open V-groove welds. The program also covers MIG welding techniques.
Course Length: 360 hours
Locations: Boonville Correctional Center, Boonville; Moberly Correctional Center, Moberly
Certifications: National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER)
Building Trades
This is an introductory class covers safety, basic hand and power tools, building materials, blueprint reading, footing and foundations layouts, and installing wood framed floors, layout and wall assembly, layout and ceiling framing, rafter layout and cutting, assembling a gable rook, barriers and sheeting door and window installations, stairs, drywall installation and finishing, and trim work. All information and skills conform to union industry standards.
Course Length: Up to 480 hours
Locations: Western Reception, Diagnostic & Correctional Center (WRDCC)
Certifications: Carpenters Joint Apprenticeship Program (CJAP)
Business Technology Office Management
The multifaceted curriculum equips students with the essential skills demanded by the modern business landscape. From mastering keyboarding and accounting to understanding office procedures and business concepts, students also develop proficiency in technical writing, digital literacy, and Microsoft Office suite. The program goes further by delving into marketing and advertising, enhancing the students’ ability to promote businesses effectively. With dedicated instructors, modern technology resources, and an emphasis on practical education, this program prepares its students for a wide array of roles in office management.
Course Length: 360 hours
Locations: Chillicothe Correctional Center
Certified Nurse’s Assistant
This program provides students with a well-rounded education in nursing care. The curriculum covers becoming a nurse’s assistant, long-term healthcare dynamics, ethical and legal responsibilities, human anatomy, and vital signs monitoring, and creating care plans. Students develop strong communication skills, cultural sensitivity, and safety measures for residents and environments. The program addresses infection control, nutrition, and personal care, emphasizing restorative nursing and safe resident handling. By program completion, students are equipped to provide skilled and compassionate care as Certified Nursing Assistants.
Course Length: 75 hours
Locations: Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic & Correctional Center (WERDCC)
Certifications: Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Certificate
Cosmetology
The cosmetology program is a one year program designed to help students obtain necessary hours in all the required areas as determined by the State Board of Cosmetology. Students will train in the required skills from the essentials of shampooing and hair coloring to hair cutting, styling techniques, and nail treatments. With a focus on practical expertise, students learn to create stunning haircuts, styles, and colors, including permanent waving and relaxing treatments. Facial treatments, eyebrow shaping, and manicures are also part of the curriculum. In addition to mastering the art of cosmetology, students gain knowledge in cosmetic chemistry, salesmanship, shop management, sanitation and infection control, and anatomy ensuring they’re well-rounded beauty professionals.
Course Length: 1,220 hours
Locations: Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic & Correctional Center (WERDCC)
Certifications: State of Missouri Cosmetology License
Culinary Arts
This course is designed to provide students with the basic food knowledge and preparation techniques, management practices, and hands-on experiences which develop students for careers in the hospitality industry. In this program, you will learn basic nutrition, sanitation, and meal planning. We explore all aspects of the fundamentals of cooking, and learn about quality food production. The class also focuses on professional behavior in the workplace. It is designed to develop the skills needed to test for the Industry Recognized Credential through ProStart and a certification in sanitation with the ServSafe. The course also offers college credit through Missouri State West Plains.
Course Length: 380 hours
Locations: Algoa Correctional Center (ACC); Chillicothe Correctional Center (CCC); Missouri Eastern Correctional Center (MECC); Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic & Correctional Center (WERDCC)
Certifications: ServSafe; ProStart
Electrical Wiring Technology
This course provides an intensive overview of the skills necessary to find gainful employment in electrical installation and electrical maintenance fields. These skills include math, safety, National Electric Code (NEC) familiarization, inspection and quality control, OHM’s lave, conduit bonding, residential electrical circuits, residential service calculations, and light commercial circuitry.
Course Length: 500 hours
Locations: Boonville Correctional Center (BCC); Crossroads Correctional Center (CRCC)
Certifications: National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER)
Heavy Equipment Operator
Students will learn to drive and maneuver “heavy equipment” through the use of realistic simulators. They will also coordinate machine actions while working with other using hand or audio signals as would be required on a jobsite. An important component of the class is to teach safety standards and ensure it is understood those must be met according to OSHA guidelines at all times. Simulators will include an excavator, bull dozer and wheel loader. This course also works on employability skills; such as: resume building, communications and accountability.
Course Length: 360 hours
Locations: Boonville Correctional Center
Certifications: Caterpillar Acknowledgment Certificates; National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Job Site Safety
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
Students will learn the basic electrical requirements in HVAC. Students will study the basic copper and plastic pipes utilized in HVAC install and operation. Students will be introduced to duct work, conduit manufacturing and installation. Basic overall diagnosis and repair of refrigeration systems will also be covered.
Students must be able to: lift up to 50 lbs., climb a ladder, stand up to 30 minutes, properly use hand tools, preform some physical labor and basic reading and writing skills.
Course Length: 300-360 hours
Locations: Tipton Correctional Center (TCC)
Certifications: National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER); Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Esco 608
Manufacturing: Warehouse, Manufacturing and Supply Chain
Students will work towards becoming a Certified Production Technician and/or a Certified Logistics Technician. The students will obtain OSHA 10 training in addition to learning the foundational and core competencies of advanced manufacturing production at the entry level. The program will focus on safety, quality practices and measurement, manufacturing processes and productions, and maintenance awareness.
Course Length: 360 hours
Locations: Chillicothe Correctional Center (CCC); Farmington Correctional Center (FCC)
Certifications: Manufacturing Skills Standards Council – Certified Production Technician (CPT) certification
Outdoor Power Equipment Technology
Our Outdoor Power Equipment Technology program immerses students in the intricate world of power equipment, covering a range of vital areas. The curriculum encompasses ignition systems, engine overhauls, drive train systems, electrical wiring systems, and fuel systems, providing comprehensive knowledge of these essential components. Students also gain expertise in parts technology, ensuring they are well-versed in equipment maintenance, modification and repair. The program features enhanced modules that expand knowledge into specialized areas, such as lawn care and the maintenance of various outdoor power equipment, ready to troubleshoot, repair, and maintain a wide array of machinery used in outdoor settings.
Course Length: 360 hours
Locations: Crossroads Correctional Center (CRCC)
Landscaping
This course offers a comprehensive and diverse curriculum that covers all aspects of the professional gardening field. From plant science basics and greenhouse management to landscaping, plant identification, pests and diseases, the safe use of pesticides, pest management, and floral design, students gain a wide range of knowledge and skills. Whether interested in greenhouse operation, plant propagation, or creating beautiful landscapes, this program equips students with the expertise needed to thrive in the world of professional gardening.
Course Length: 360 hours
Locations: Chillicothe Correctional Center (CCC); Northeast Correctional Center (NECC)
Residential Plumbing
This program provides a comprehensive foundation for students pursuing a career in plumbing. The curriculum covers essential areas, starting with general shop and construction safety, ensuring students operate in a secure work environment. Students learn the identification and application of fittings, as well as the joining of copper tubing and steel pipe, enabling them to work with different materials effectively. The program emphasizes the correct setting of various plumbing fixtures and includes instruction on (and hands on work with) plastic and steel pipes and fittings. Students gain valuable skills in basic blueprint reading, which is crucial for project understanding and execution. Furthermore, the program covers industry codes and maintenance and repair of plumbing systems. This course also works on employability skills such as resume building, communications and accountability.
Course Length: 360 hours
Locations: Tipton Correctional Center (TCC)
Certifications: National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER); Level 1 Plumbing; Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 29
Telecommunications
Students follow a C-Tech curriculum to learn network cabling and hardware installation, covering copper and fiber-optics-based systems. Students study home/business wiring/installation for environmental, security, entertainment and energy-management purposes. The program also focuses on new wireless systems, including antenna placement and general system capabilities. Students learn how to tie all of these systems together for the convenience of the end user
Students will earn continuing education credits for each of the 5 certificates through CEDIA (Custom Electronics Design and Installation Association) and BICSI (Building Industry Consulting Service International).
Course Length: 150-200 hours
Locations: Missouri Eastern Correctional Center (MECC)
Certifications: C-Tech Certifications
Tattoo Artist Apprenticeship
The tattooing program offers an immersive practitioner’s apprenticeship, demanding a minimum of 300 hours of training and 50 procedures. The curriculum covers vital topics such as disease prevention and blood-borne pathogen training. Students learn essential skills, from first aid and CPR to setting up their workstations with proper hygiene measures to prevent cross-contamination. The program covers comprehensive knowledge of tattoo machine components, needle configurations, and correct machine wrapping techniques. Proper lining and shading techniques are a core focus, ensuring students develop the skills needed to create professional tattoos while maintaining the highest standards of safety and hygiene.
Course Length: 300 hours
Locations: Western Reception, Diagnostic & Correctional Center (WRDCC); Algoa Correctional Center (ACC)
Certifications: State of Missouri Tattoo License