In 1919, Aramark introduced to the U.S. training in aspects of food service for prisoners as an extension of the IN2WORK program. It is estimated that worldwide over the past ten years, as many as 20,000 individuals have received Aramark training in food preparation and presentation. Depending on training and electives, graduates of the program are eligible for a ServSafe Manager certification from the National Restaurant Association or a Certified Specialist Certificate from the National Retail Federation in Supply Chain, Inventory and Logistics.

The Kansas Department of Corrections (KDC) encouraged prisoners to undertake training in food safety and sanitation, nutrition and food preparation leading to certification as a fundamental cook offered by the American Culinary Federation. Training while incarcerated in Kansas has allowed 224 individuals to graduate from the Aramark program allowing rehabilitation and the prospect of becoming a productive member of society after release. Previously the KDC cooperated with a major egg-producer in the state to provide staff for a packing plant. The Hickman operation in Arizona employed prisoners as workers in construction, packing and layer-house operations with benefits to the Company and participants. Many of the workers were offered permanent positions after parole or release. This is an activity that deserves emulation providing there is training, prospects for future employment and without exploitation.

Tim Barttrum president and CEO of Aramark Correctional Services stated “We always look for opportunities to make a difference and IN2WORK does just that. It has been a privilege to see it grow from a feature we offer as an integral part of our mission.”  Since its launch in 1999 IN2WORK has been implemented in 32 states with more than 292 programs and has graduated more than 14,000 students.