Federal prison's job fair targets Ind. veterans

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (AP) - A federal prison in western Indiana is trying to recruit unemployed veterans whose military experience might make them good candidates for prison jobs.

More than 60 veterans turned out Monday for a job fair at the Federal Correctional Complex in Terre Haute, where jobs often open up due to retirements and transfers.

After visiting Monday's fair, veteran Luke Faulkner said he's interested in working in a prison because of its organizational structure and potential for growth. Faulkner served in Iraq, and he's been unemployed since he returned a year ago. He figures about 70 percent of his fellow soldiers were unemployed when they came home, mostly because of the economy.

"I thought this was an outstanding chance to see what they are offering," Faulkner told The Tribune-Star. "Just knowing that they are in support of us is important. You hear it, but to see it is great."

Veteran Jeff Baize of Terre Haute said another benefit of prison work is that his years of active military duty could count toward federal retirement.

The prison complex hosted the career fair with participation from Bureau of Prison facilities in Marion and Greenville, Ill., the National Cemetery Administration, the Small Business Administration, the VA Medical Center in Indianapolis and area employment agencies. Representatives from Indiana Wesleyan University spoke to several veterans as well about adult learning programs that allow a student to hold a job while earning a degree.

A computer center was available to let veterans apply online for jobs on the spot.

Prison spokesman Marvin Pitt said veterans are well-suited to corrections work.

"They know how to operate within an agency," Pitt said. "They are professional, and they are in good shape. They have a lot of expertise and training, and that enhances our workforce as well."