Optical Lab at Airway Heights Corrections Center: A Second Chance to Serve the Community

August 21, 2024

By Brendan Baptiste (email) Communications Office

The Optical Lab at Airway Heights Corrections Center (AHCC) is a shining example of rehabilitation and community service within the prison system. This unique program provides incarcerated individuals an opportunity to gain valuable skills and contribute positively to society, even while serving their sentences.

“One of the optical supervisors, Patrick Mercer, he's basically the one that handles the operations on the floor. He likes to hire those that have been more of the difficult cases, maybe, that have lived the gang life on the streets, come in here and notice that that's not going to be the lifestyle for them” says James Duval, Incarcerated Individual. “He'll bring them into this environment, and he gives them the second chance that they need.”

At AHCC, the optical lab employs incarcerated individuals, offering them a chance to learn a specialized trade. These highly trained technicians produce eyewear and that skill that could land them future employment after incarceration. Learning a trade can be a valuable tool to help rebuild their lives as they reintegrate into society.

The impact of the optical lab extends beyond prison walls. Each day, the lab produces upwards of 700 pairs of glasses, most of which are distributed to individuals on Health Care Authority medical plans. Their work ensures that a vulnerable population has access to essential vision care, which can dramatically improve their quality of life. For the Incarcerated individuals working in the lab, its more than a job, it’s a way to contribute to something meaningful.

“I screwed up out there and so all that was taken away from me. I'm not really able to do anything for the community out there. So, for me being able to do this, this is my way of giving back to the people” says Derrick, Incarcerated Individual. “Knowing that I'm actually helping people, whether they know that or not, that's my way of giving back to the communities out there.”