Green Oaks Training and Professional Development Center, 2020
The training center is a long-term investment in a 21st-century state-of-the-art training academy for new recruits and current employees in Whitelake, Michigan. The department is also hosting its first Youth Career Academy there in June 2026. Dormitory renovations were finished in July 2024, completing the facility.
Northern Region Training Center
The department invested and opened the Northern Region Training Center in Kinross, Michigan. This facility now serves as the primary training hub for new Michigan Department of Corrections officer recruits in the Upper Peninsula.
LEAD Academy
The department created the LEAD Academy for investment in professional development and growth. The program provides emerging department leaders with resources and mentors to reach their career goals and to increase employee retention.
Employee Engagement Team/Employee Engagement Fund
The department created a dedicated employee engagement team which organizes fundraisers and employee events statewide. The team also operates a non-profit to provide financial support to staff in crisis situations
Wellness Unit
The department created a full time Wellness Unit in May 2019. The team provides a 24/7 Wellness Helpline, confidential counseling, peer support, and workshops/training. It serves department employees, their immediate family members, and MDOC retirees. In FY2025, the team served over 2,000 people.
Learn more about the MDOC Wellness Unit
Law Enforcement Torch Run and Special Olympics
The department is heavily involved in the Law Enforcement Torch Run which is a fundraiser benefiting Special Olympics of Michigan. There are currently five MDOC employees on the LETR Executive Board and one retiree. Staff volunteer at the state summer, winter, fall and spring games presenting medals to athletes. Staff also spearhead many events at their facilities and larger events outside of the facility. Since 2015, department efforts with this organization have raised: $1,596,076. MDOC has received the Diamond Award multi-years for raising $50,000 or more.
