Prisoners Learn Coding Skills

Amid H-1B Challenges

This brief commentary examines the Brace Behind Bars program to help prisoners have a chance at life after life in the tech sector. Subscribe for uncensored journalism from a single, dedicated source.

Young men and women in prison learn software development through a program called Brace Behind Bars. It allows them to give back to society and rebuild their lives after release. The students earn certificates to prove their newfound skills. It's part of the prison and jail education program.

The prospect of six-figure salaries gives these individuals hope for a new start. It encourages them to stay on the straight and narrow. But, with the onslaught of the H-1B visa programs, it puts these individuals at risk. Companies often prefer foreign-born workers over American citizens. That means upon release, no jobs available, and no second chances.

Brace Behind Bars is the ticket these inmates need for employment. However, the current market trends for foreign workers may hinder their ability to succeed. And in my opinion, it's due to the abuse of the H-1B program. It'll make it difficult for them to re-enter society and find stability in the tech sector.

Source

Lacey-Bordeaux, Emma and CNN. 2024. “Inmates Are Learning to Code in Prison. Jobs May Be Hard to Come by | CNN Business.” CNN, December 28, 2024.