Exit, Enter, Employ – or E3, the re-entry program that readies those with prior justice system involvement to enter the manufacturing workforce, recently recognized five more graduates. 

Developed and administered by the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU), the E3 program is offered as pre-release classes for those at Chester County Prison who will soon exit the justice system and post-release classes for those who have recently exited the justice system. 

E3 is funded by Chester County Government with American Rescue Plan Act funds.

Chester County Commissioners Josh Maxwell, Marian Moskowitz, and Eric Roe said in a statement, “E3 can be a lifeline to individuals who have served time in prison because not only are they trained to work in manufacturing, but they are taught job readiness, social skills, positive self-change, interviewing, and problem-solving techniques. At the end of the program, participants interview with employers who are looking for the skillsets and training they acquired. 

“E3 is an incredibly worthwhile program created and run by the CCIU, which partners with Chester County Prison. We thank the CCIU and participating organizations and businesses that are providing employment connections,” added the Commissioners. 

Jill Stoltzfus, the CCIU career readiness coordinator/E3 Re-Entry coordinator, said, “In addition to manufacturing and skills training, E3 participants receive certifications in OSHA-10, traffic flagging, and customer service. And thanks to the Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union, they also benefit from workshops about credit scores, building or rebuilding credit, and investing.

“By instilling confidence and workforce readiness, E3 helps to provide a brighter future for participants, as well as skilled, trained workers for manufacturing employers.”