Prison industries offers vocational training and professional work experience to inmates. The limited research on its effectiveness focuses primarily on post-release employment and recidivism outcomes. The current study interviews 70 male and female inmates from four Pennsylvania correctional industries programs. Inmates discussed their perceptions on the program, its impact on their behavior, and whether the training and skills are transferable. Prison industries improves one's sense of self and offers structure and routine. However, the relevance of the experience depends on the type of industry. Strengths and weaknesses of prison industries, including the need for gender-specific correctional work programs, are highlighted. © 2014 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.
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