John Chapman’s Vision for Correctional Education Reform
At Coffeewood Correctional Center, JASA Inc Trade School’s innovative approach to correctional education is creating real transformation. Through a strategic partnership between the 4B Cognitive Community and John Chapman’s Johnny Apple Seed Association, Inc., a comprehensive Basic Electrical Study Course has been launched, offering returning citizens a direct pathway to meaningful employment and successful reentry.
JASA Inc’s Mission-Driven Trade Education
John Chapman, founder and president of JASA Inc Trade School, established this correctional education initiative as part of his broader mission to serve underserved communities. Since 2012, JASA Inc has been providing vocational training and job placement support for individuals entering the trades, with a special focus on veterans, homeless families, and incarcerated individuals seeking second chances.
“I have a student who went through our electrical program in prison while finishing his 26-year sentence,” Chapman explains. “When he was released, he went on to get professionally licensed, get married, buy a house, and now owns his own company in Maryland. He’s doing great, and he’s giving back to society. It just shows how giving people a chance at a career makes them less likely to re-offend.”
Expert-Led Electrical Apprenticeship Training
With support from 4B Cognitive Counselor Mrs. LaVonda Hedgepeth and Offender Workforce Development Specialist Mrs. Jennie Amison, JASA Inc’s electrical training program officially launched on August 4, 2017. The trade school curriculum was developed and is taught by Mr. Mark Koper, a returning citizen and Master Electrician whose firsthand reentry experience aligns perfectly with Chapman’s vision of peer-led education.
JASA Inc’s Proven Track Record in Trade Skills Education
The first graduating class from JASA Inc’s program represents more than just educational success—it demonstrates Chapman’s commitment to evidence-based correctional education. Each student gained foundational electrical skills certification through JASA Inc’s comprehensive 265-hour curriculum, typically completed in 12 weeks.
JASA Inc Trade School offers seven comprehensive programs: Electrical, Plumbing, HVAC, Construction, Facilities Maintenance, Industrial Maintenance, and Auto Mechanic—all designed with Chapman’s philosophy that practical skills create sustainable career pathways.
The Future of JASA Inc’s Correctional Education Programs
Coffeewood’s Basic Electrical Study Course exemplifies John Chapman’s forward-thinking approach to correctional education. Since establishing JASA Inc in 2012, Chapman has built a 13-year proven track record in trade education, creating industry relationships that directly benefit program graduates.
JASA Inc’s hybrid learning model combines online curriculum, VR simulations, and hands-on labs—reflecting Chapman’s commitment to innovation in trade school education. The program’s success at Coffeewood represents JASA Inc’s broader mission to support successful reintegration through practical skills training.
JASA Inc’s Expanding Impact
Under John Chapman’s leadership, JASA Inc Trade School continues expanding its reach through the Johnny Apple Seed Association’s nonprofit work. The organization conducts fundraisers, annual Christmas toy distributions, and provides ongoing support to veterans and families in need—demonstrating Chapman’s holistic approach to community transformation.
JASA Inc is accredited by IACET and maintains relationships with NCCER, ensuring that Chapman’s vision for quality trade education meets industry standards while serving those who need it most.