Poster #146 - Identifying Key Predictors of Employment Among Justice-Involved Emerging Youths

• In Event: Poster Session II (posters 80 – 155)

Abstract

For justice-involved young adults, securing stable employment is an essential milestone for successful community reintegration and recidivism reduction. While various workforce development initiatives exist, empirical evidence on which specific program components most effectively drive employment outcomes remains inconsistent. Therefore, this study evaluates the impact of a community-based vocational training program located in a major metropolitan area in Texas, focusing on the relationship between program completion and labor market entry. Using administrative data from a reentry program, this research conducted logistic regression analysis to examine the predictors of employment among program participants. The findings showed that the number of credentials is the significant predictor of employment. In contrast, other demographic factors such as race, age at intake, and previous justice involvement, didn't show significant relationships with employment outcomes. The study suggests that for justice-impacted populations, the acquisition of market-recognized credentials serves as a powerful mechanism to overcome employment barriers. These findings emphasize the importance of stackable certifications over generalized support services in workforce development. By identifying credentialing as a primary driver of economic success, this study provides evidence-based insights for designing more effective, equitable reentry interventions and informing community-based correctional policies.

Author

• Minyeong Yoon, The University of Texas at Dallas