In Maine, Prisoners Are Thriving in Remote Jobs, Gaining National Attention Overview Maine is pioneering a successful model of incarcerated individuals working remotely for outside companies, transforming the traditional prison labor system. This approach is gaining recognition as it offers meaningful work, higher wages, and improved prison environments. Key Highlights Remote Job Opportunities: Approximately 45 prisoners in Maine currently work remote jobs. Some work full-time, earning salaries exceeding those of corrections officers. One prisoner, Preston Thorpe, earns a six-figure income as a senior software engineer. Remote work is possible thanks to limited internet access laptops approved for education and employment. Case Study: Preston Thorpe A self-taught coder and former "computer geek," Thorpe started coding from prison. He was transferred to Maine’s prison system in 2019 and gained access to laptops that helped him focus and learn. Hired in June by Turso, an international database company, after impressing through online contributions to public software projects. His criminal record was not an impediment to employment due to the company’s background check policy. Thorpe purchased a house and aims to be released next year, proud of making his parents proud. Other Incarcerated Workers: Darlene George, serving a 40-year sentence, holds a full-time remote role as a program coordinator for a healthcare company. She values her role as a decision maker and advocate, earning a competitive salary and respect from colleagues and fellow inmates. Maine Department of Corrections’ Role: First state to implement a remote work policy for incarcerated students. Internet access allowed for 800 residents, monitored closely for security. Remote work couples with education to offer pathways to community reentry. Wages are partially garnished for restitution and fees; surplus can be saved or sent to families. Positive Outcomes: Safer prison environment with a sharp decrease in staff assaults (from 87 in 2017 to 7 recently). Programs provide hope, purpose, and meaningful employment. For the Department of Corrections, the initiative improves safety and rehabilitation outcomes. Broader Impact: Maine’s model inspires other states to adopt similar policies. Remote work is considered a well-reasoned, carefully implemented plan, not a reckless experiment. Expansion potential depends on growing employer networks who recognize incarcerated workers' value. Article Details Author: Susan Sharon, Maine Public Publication Date: August 29, 2025 Length: 6 minutes, 22 seconds (audio available) Images: Included photos of Preston Thorpe and Darlene George during work sessions in prison, showing active engagement in remote work. Additional Resources Part one of the series discusses how technology and education are changing prison lives. Maine Public provides community support and encourages donations to sustain such initiatives. The article includes links for further exploration, sign-ups, and social media. --- This story highlights a transformative approach where education, technology, and remote work converge to empower incarcerated individuals, foster rehabilitation, and enhance safety within correctional facilities. The Maine model sets a replicable example with measurable social and economic benefits.