NCJ Number
204576
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 66 Issue: 1 Dated: February 2004 Pages: 82-83
Date Published
February 2004
Length
2 pages
Annotation
This article describes programs of the National Institute of Corrections (NIC) that are designed to assist in the recruitment and retention of the corrections work force.
Abstract
Focus groups held in four parts of the country led to NIC's initiation of two projects designed to address these issues. One project examined the possibility of establishing a "transportable" retirement system for correctional workers; this would be similar to the retirement program found in institutions of higher education, which allows employees who relocate to another institution to continue to retain their pension eligibility. The second project focused on the multigenerational work force. Using focus groups with representatives from the major age groupings, the project team developed a training curriculum and manual. The curriculum is designed to assist supervisors and managers in understanding the differences between generations, forging better working relationships that include generational diversity, and using each generation's unique characteristics to enhance the work environment. In response to changes in the current work force, NIC has also updated its training program for new wardens. The update includes attention to the changing leadership skills required of today's new wardens. In addition, NIC developed the "Resource Guide for Newly Appointed Wardens," which provides a realistic overview of the concerns, challenges, and skills necessary for new wardens to thrive in their new positions. In June, NIC hosted a 36-hour program to further support training for new wardens. Experienced wardens acted as "coaches" for future wardens, and the coaching relationship continued beyond the initial 36-hour program for a period of 3-6 months.