M. Davis & Sons: Empowering Second Chances

September 23, 2024

When it comes to workforce development, M. Davis & Sons is setting a powerful example by partnering with the Food Bank of Delaware to give people a second chance. Through their collaboration with the L.O.G.I.C. (Logistics, Operations, General Warehousing and Inventory Control) program, M. Davis & Sons has provided career opportunities for four graduates who were formerly incarcerated, helping them rebuild their lives and create a sustainable future.

Stanley Gatewood, John Sniadowski, Michael Neal and Michael Davis, entered the L.O.G.I.C. program through the work release program at the Delaware Department of Correction’s Plummer Center. They credit the program for not only giving them the foundation to start new lives, but it also helped create a career pathway.

“The program changed my life dramatically,” said Gatewood. “It gave me a schedule and a routine, kept me away from everything I was doing in the past, and allowed me to save money, build credit, and create new relationships.”

Under the instruction of Operations Instructor, Lloyd Badson, participants learn how to safely maneuver and operate warehouse equipment like fork lifts, pallet jacks, end riders and more. Program participants also have an opportunity to work towards earning the nationally-accredited Manufacturing Skill Standards Council’s Certified Logistics Associate and Certified Logistics Technician credentials, forklift and OSHA-10 certification.

In addition to on-the-job training, the program also helps participants thrive in their day-to-day lives.

“When I came home [from prison], I had nothing,” pointed out Neal. “The Food Bank helped guide me to where I am today. It was a game-changer.”

The training program provides a structured environment where participants can develop crucial skills, build confidence, and create a network of supportive relationships.

One of those supportive relationships is John Gooden, Chief Operating Officer at M. Davis.

John is a regular guest speaker for the L.O.G.I.C. class to talk about career opportunities at the company. With employee shortages impacting employers across the country, John knows firsthand that re-entering citizens are a great source of talented workers.

He believes that public policy efforts are needed to help expunge some records to open up more employment opportunities to offenders, “We need to join hands and go to Dover and D.C. and put some pressure to help expunge some of these records for stuff that’s legal now and to take a look at the reasoning behind having the criminal background checks being too restrictive. There’s a lack of workers.”

M. Davis employee Eric Tilman oftentimes accompanies Gooden to speak to students. Tilman knows about second chances and is proud to be a member of the M. Davis team. His advice, “Be serious with yourself. Do you want a career or do you just want a job?”

The partnership between M. Davis & Sons and the Food Bank of Delaware is a testament to the belief that everyone deserves a second chance. The graduates have faced their share of challenges, including stigmas surrounding their backgrounds, but they have found a supportive environment at M. Davis & Sons.

“Everyone deserves a second chance,” said Sniadowski. “People make mistakes, but that doesn’t define who they are today. Employers who are unwilling to give second chances are missing out on some great workers.”

Sniadowski, Gatewood and Neal are still on probation, and M. Davis is flexible with accommodations. “We have to do programs, and they are okay if I have to leave,” explained Sniadowski. “They work with us, doing the paperwork, taking calls.”

All four associates are now pursuing apprenticeships through M. Davis.

“I started in pipe fitting, but now I’m moving into electrical. I love electrical work,” said Gatewood. “I want to learn everything I can. I want to keep climbing the ladder.”

Supervisor, Tom Bullock, is pleased with the employees. “They’re really good workers.  I say they’re the golden child of the whole system [criminal justice system].”

Both Bullock and Gooden encourage other companies to embrace individuals looking for a second chance. As the graduates attest, the program provide not only a second chance but also a renewed sense of purpose and direction. For those who are currently in the program, the advice is clear, “Believe in yourself and go get it,” said Neal. “Anybody can do it. We all did it, and look where we are now. You’ve just got to want it.”

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