In an inspiring milestone for rehabilitation and reentry efforts, Ajiah Gee, 25, has become the first female inmate to graduate from the Walton County Jail’s Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Program.
According to a report by WWNYTV on Sept. 9, 2025, Gee graduated with a Class A CDL with no restrictions, along with specialized endorsements.
Securing a CDL in Florida is no small feat. Candidates must pass written knowledge exams, complete a rigorous road skills test, and demonstrate the ability to safely operate large and complex vehicles.
Gee exceeded expectations, not only earning her Class A CDL, but also achieving endorsements to drive double/triple trailers (“T”) and tankers (“N”) — certifications that can open doors to higher-paying and more competitive jobs in the trucking industry.
“These accomplishments take hard work, dedication, and determination. All qualities Ajiah has shown every step of the way,” said her CDL instructor, Tim Castiglione, who praised Gee’s focus and perseverance throughout the training process.
Breaking Barriers Behind Bars
The Walton County Jail CDL Program, fully funded through inmate welfare dollars, is designed to equip incarcerated individuals with marketable skills that can lead to stable employment upon release.
By becoming the program’s first female graduate, Gee has set a precedent for other women in custody who may be seeking pathways toward independence and self-sufficiency. The achievement, officials say, underscores the program’s central motto: “Recovery, not recidivism.”
“Second chances matter. Every certificate, every license, and every step forward is a chance to choose a new path,” the Walton County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement celebrating Gee’s success.
A Broader Push for Rehabilitation
Across the U.S., correctional facilities are increasingly turning to vocational training programs — from carpentry and welding to CDL certification — to address high rates of recidivism.
According to the Prison Policy Initiative, formerly incarcerated people are five times more likely to be unemployed than the general population, a barrier that often contributes to repeat offenses.
Programs like Walton County’s CDL training offer a different trajectory, preparing individuals for industries with strong demand. The American Trucking Associations projects a nationwide shortage of nearly 80,000 truck drivers, creating an opportunity for reentry programs to fill gaps in the workforce while giving participants meaningful employment.
A Symbol of Hope
For Gee, the CDL and endorsements represent more than professional qualifications — they symbolize a chance at a new life. While her time in custody continues, her achievement is already inspiring others.
“Ajiah has paved the way,” officials said. “Her success is a reminder that the future doesn’t have to be defined by the past.”
