Many inmates in Arapahoe County, CO, enter the local correctional system lacking education, work ethics, and work experience. As such, the A-STEP program was conceived as a way to provide inmates with lessons and experiences on job interviewing and work skills, and to provide inmates with a strong work ethic. In order to be accepted into the A-STEP program, inmates must apply for a job within A-STEP and go through a job interview. Inmates who are hired must sign a contract and are paid for their work. Job perks are provided to inmate employees, such as real coffee and a weekly soda and candy bars. By providing these types of incentives, inmates learn that they will be rewarded for their hard work. The program also provides assistance with preparing for job interviews, including how to choose clothing for an interview and how to tell prospective employers that they have been in jail. Although a formal program evaluation has not been conducted, program leaders believe A-STEP not only instills work ethics and skills, but also provides inmates with self-esteem and work experience, which will help secure employment upon their return to society. In fact, the article reports that many inmates receive jobs on their first day of release from the local private businesses who have taken part in A-STEP. The job training program is highly regarded by inmates and jail staff alike, with many former inmates writing the jail about the positive impact the program has on their lives. As such, A-STEP is considered a “win/win” program for the inmates, the correctional system, and the local private businesses who participate. Endnotes.