Milwaukee Program Trained Formerly Incarcerated in AI
A four-week course helped 15 graduates gain essential digital skills for modern job applications.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Artificial Intelligence
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Community Warehouse and Milky Way Tech Hub have launched an artificial intelligence training program for formerly incarcerated individuals. The initiative saw its first cohort of 15 students graduate on September 30.
Why it matters
Formerly incarcerated people face significant employment barriers due to the transition from paper-based to digital-only job application systems. This program equips them with the necessary digital skills to navigate these modern requirements.
The program lasts four weeks and teaches students AI prompting techniques for business plans. Participants also learn to use generative AI to create resumes and cover letters based on their personal skills.
The players
Zachary Barian
He is a graduate of the program who previously served 25 years in 14 different federal prisons, where he earned four paralegal degrees.
Franklin Coleman
He serves as the re-entry job coach for Partners in Hope and spent 23 years and 4 months incarcerated.
Community Warehouse
This organization provides job training and re-entry services for formerly incarcerated individuals in Milwaukee.
Milky Way Tech Hub
This technology organization partnered to provide the artificial intelligence curriculum for the training program.
The details
Instructors guide participants through the origins and capabilities of AI while applying these tools to professional tasks like headshot creation and cover letter writing. The curriculum specifically addresses the technological gap that hinders those re-entering the workforce from competing for modern jobs.
Timeline
September 30, 2026: The first cohort of 15 students graduated from the AI training program.
The Tech Race
This initiative reflects a broader shift toward integrating generative AI into workforce development and vocational training. By focusing on AI literacy, it positions participants to navigate a job market increasingly dominated by automated screening and digital application systems.
The program allows formerly incarcerated job seekers to leverage AI to overcome the hurdle of digital-only application portals. Participants gain practical experience in drafting professional resumes and cover letters that align with modern employer expectations.
The takeaway
Developing AI literacy is becoming a critical tool for those seeking to re-enter the workforce after incarceration. Mastering these tools can help individuals overcome traditional barriers to employment in a digital-first economy.
Further reading
For more on how new technologies are impacting job markets, visit our Artificial Intelligence section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Journal Sentinel.
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