Brendon Smith, released from Deer Ridge in December 2024. He is still enrolled in our program, but a definite Success Story. Within a month of release, Brendon was hired on at Behlen’s Welding in Baker City. We converted the hire into an OJT to continue his training as a welder. While incarcerated at DRCI, Brendon began the welding training and was able to obtain a certificate.
Since being hired, Brendon has earned “Commendable” ratings from his trainer. HR speaks glowingly of his reliability, dependability, and positive attitude. Brendon has obtained adequate and suitable housing that is affordable and meets and he is adjusting well to managing life outside of DOC custody. He is working hard thriving in his community. He reports gratitude for the opportunities that was available to him while at DRCI and feels that the trainings gave him more knowledge and skills to begin this new journey of his life and career.