Orijin and Interplay Learning Expand Partnership to Offer 15 Learning Pathways to Support Pre-Apprenticeships and Additional Skilled Trades Training in Correctional Facilities

AUSTIN, Texas and NEW YORK, March 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Orijin, a technology leader in evidence-based learning and workforce development programming for correctional jurisdictions, and Interplay Learning, the leading provider of immersive skilled trades training, have expanded their partnership to provide greater access to workforce development opportunities for justice-impacted individuals. This expansion introduces pre-apprenticeship pathways and additional skilled trades training options to better prepare individuals for sustainable careers post-release.

Building on the success of their initial partnership, which provided Interplay's career exploration and foundational training through Orijin's secure platform, this new phase extends the offering to include 15 comprehensive learning pathways from Interplay Learning. These learning tracks feature expanded course hours and industry-relevant training, enabling learners to develop in-demand trade skills in fields such as HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and facilities maintenance.

Delivered on safe and secure digital tablets, these expanded pathways include options for pre-apprenticeship opportunities, designed to help individuals transition more seamlessly into the workforce. These structured programs provide hands-on skills training that aligns with industry expectations, increasing employability and reducing barriers to job placement post-incarceration.

"This partnership expansion represents a significant step in breaking down employment barriers for justice-impacted individuals," said Arti Finn, Chief Strategy Officer and Co-Founder at Orijin. "By integrating pre-apprenticeships and deeper training opportunities, we are not only providing education but also real pathways to sustainable careers that lead to long-term success."

Orijin's secure managed learning platform ensures that learners in correctional facilities can access Interplay Learning's hands-on training in a controlled environment. The expanded training catalog complements Orijin's existing educational content, which includes employability readiness, ESL courses, and financial literacy, providing a holistic approach to re-entry preparation.

"Through our partnership with Orijin, we are making high-quality skills training more accessible to justice-involved individuals who are eager to build stable careers," said Doug Donovan, CEO of Interplay Learning. "By expanding our learning pathways and introducing pre-apprenticeships, we're equipping more individuals with the tools they need to successfully re-enter the workforce."

Orijin and Interplay Learning remain committed to fostering career readiness among justice-involved individuals, helping them gain the skills and confidence needed to secure meaningful employment upon release. 

About Interplay Learning
Interplay Learning, the leader in immersive learning for the skilled trades, now includes Industrial Training International (ITI), the global leader in specialized industrial learning solutions. Leveraging instructor-led training, online simulations, AI, and VR, Interplay helps organizations and educational institutions upskill faster, reduce risk, and increase operational readiness. With nearly 600,000 people trained, Interplay is shaping the future of workforce development, building better careers and better lives. Visit www.interplaylearning.com to learn more.

About Orijin
Founded in 2014, Orijin breaks the cycle of incarceration by preparing every justice-impacted individual for a sustainable career. Orijin provides a robust, cloud-based learning and communications platform delivered on secure devices in hundreds of correctional facilities across the country. As a public benefit corporation and Certified B Corporation, Orijin does not charge incarcerated individuals nor their families for its solutions. For more information, visit www.orijin.works.

MEDIA CONTACT: 
Heather Ripley
Ripley PR
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SOURCE Interplay Learning