About Face Women's Program - A USIC Career & Technical Education Partnership

USIC’s Career & Technical Education (CTE) team has launched a unique partnership in Oklahoma designed to help women involved with the criminal justice system build new skills, new confidence, and a new path forward. 

The initiative began when the District Attorney approached USIC about partnering with About Face Women’s Program — a newly formed women’s reentry program dedicated to breaking cycles of recidivism — to teach participants a skilled trade that will prepare them for life after incarceration.  

About Face serves women who have limited support systems and are working to rebuild their lives through structure, counseling, soft-skills training, and career development.  One of the leading causes of recidivism is an inability to secure stable employment following incarceration, and USIC immediately saw an opportunity to make a difference. 

Participants receive learning materials, personal protective equipment (PPE), hands-on instruction, and real ticket locating experience. Upon completion, they will receive a locating certification through USIC.  

“This is the first time I’ve actually made a solid five-year plan,” said Katy McCullough, a program participant. “I felt appreciated and like the company I plan to work for believes in me and wants to see me succeed.”  

Upon graduation in May 2026, participants who meet USIC’s hiring criteria will be eligible for employment. Successful graduates who secure full-time work will also qualify for sentence commutation, allowing them to fully exit the criminal justice system and transition to stable, long-term employment. For those needing a fresh start, USIC is offering relocation assistance of up to $5,000 to move to districts with open locator positions. 

Feedback from participants, whose ages range from their early 20s to age 40, has been overwhelmingly positive. Many have shared that this is the first time they’ve been able to envision a stable career and a life with long-term opportunities. 

“Knowing that I will soon be financially stable and not have to worry about everyday things is a weight lifted off of me,” said Ashley Russell, a program participant. “That’s a comfort that I’ve never had in my life. My plan is to make a future and succeed with USIC.” 

This pilot marks the first year of the partnership with About Face, and a second cohort is planned for fall 2026.  

“Meeting these women and hearing their stories makes the work matter even more,” said Darrin Haynes, senior manager of USIC’s CTE program. “It reflects USIC’s commitment to opportunity, community, and second chances, and I’m proud to be part of that.”