Press Release  Massachusetts Department of Correction and The Last Mile Celebrate First Graduates from Coding Program at MCI-Shirley

Shirley — The Massachusetts Department of Correction (DOC) and The Last Mile (TLM), a national leader in technology training and reentry support for incarcerated people, proudly announces the graduation of the first cohort of students from an intensive web development and coding program. On April 10, the inaugural class of five graduates was recognized in a ceremony at MCI-Shirley for their achievement in completing the approximately one-year course learning technology skills, including web development, coding, and software engineering, to prepare them for high-demand jobs when they return to Massachusetts communities. 

“Strategic partnerships with organizations like The Last Mile are essential to equipping individuals with skills necessary for success,” said Governor Maura Healey. “As technology continues to shape the modern workforce, we must proactively implement transformative programs that empower individuals to pursue sustainable careers.”

“The DOC’s efforts to enhance opportunities and foster partnerships reflect our Administration’s deep commitment to expanding reentry pathways and ensuring individuals have the tools they need to not only survive but thrive upon release. By delivering programs that support an individual’s ability to secure stable employment, we are reducing recidivism, promoting community safety, and strengthening the economy,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. 

TLM’s computer coding and technology curriculum provides incarcerated individuals with hands-on experience in modern web development. Students begin by learning fundamental programming languages such as HTML, CSS, and Bootstrap before advancing to graphic design and full-stack development with MERN to hone their back-end development skills. Classes for TLM take place five days a week, with virtual sessions augmenting classroom learning. Notably, many instructors are TLM alumni, serving as mentors and role models for current students. 

“The innovative collaboration between DOC and TLM represents our shared commitment to ensuring that returning individuals have access to industry-specific training, which can translate into meaningful employment opportunities upon release,” said Public Safety and Security Secretary Terrence Reidy. “I’m grateful to the DOC team and their TLM partners for making this program possible.”

“The Last Mile is incredibly proud to celebrate the first graduating cohort at the MCI-Shirley facility. This milestone is a testament to the dedication and perseverance of our students, who have worked through our comprehensive curriculum to develop new skills and create opportunities for their future,” said Kevin McCracken, Executive Director of The Last Mile. “We extend our deepest gratitude to the Massachusetts Department of Correction, the staff at Shirley, and our team at The Last Mile for their support in making this program a success. Together, we are proving that fair chances create stronger communities. We extend our congratulations to the graduates and look forward to what they accomplish next.” 

“The DOC continues to strengthen the portfolio of services, programs and educational opportunities for our incarcerated population because we know the long-term positive impact successful reentry has for everyone,” said DOC Commissioner Shawn Jenkins. “Our goal is to provide all the essential components necessary for individuals to prosper upon release.”

In addition, TLM has a strong reentry program that supports students’ post-release. Graduates leave the program with a portfolio to showcase their abilities to prospective employers or launch their own business ventures. TLM assists with job placement and further training opportunities with their workforce partners.  

TLM operates in seven states, including Massachusetts, and over 1,200 students have participated or are currently participating nationwide. According to TLM, returning citizens have achieved a 75% employment rate post-incarceration, and the recidivism rate is less than 5 percent. 

The Healey-Driscoll Administration’s FY26 House 1 Budget proposes approximately $10 million in funding to support reentry initiatives across DOC and the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, including $7 million for Pre- and Post-Release Services grant programs.  This proposed investment reflects the administration’s commitment to providing incarcerated individuals access to need-specific programming and industry-specific training that prepares returning individuals for successful community reintegration. 

Massachusetts is recognized as a national leader in recidivism reduction. According to the most recent DOC report, the overall recidivism rate for this cohort decreased to 26 percent, down from 29 percent in the previous year, underscoring the DOC’s continued commitment to rehabilitation and reintegration efforts.

About the Massachusetts Department of Correction  
The Massachusetts Department of Correction manages the custody, care, and rehabilitation of approximately 6,000 individuals across 13 state facilities. The DOC emphasizes evidence-based programming, trauma-informed care, and educational and vocational training to reduce recidivism and is committed to fostering accountability, personal growth, and successful reentry. Through partnerships with community organizations and stakeholders, the DOC delivers innovative services tailored to the diverse needs of incarcerated individuals while advancing equity, inclusion, and long-term public safety.  

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