Preston Thorpe is a software engineer at a San Fransisco startup. He’s also serving his eleventh year in prison.

Preston Thorpe, a software engineer currently serving his eleventh year in prison, has a unique story that challenges traditional perceptions of incarceration. While behind bars, he has become a valuable contributor to an open-source project run by Turso, a database company. His impressive work caught the attention of Turso's CEO, Glauber Costa, who quickly extended a job offer after realizing Thorpe's background. Thorpe is part of a pioneering program in the Maine prison system that allows inmates to work remotely. This initiative has provided him with a renewed sense of purpose and has been instrumental in his rehabilitation. Reflecting on his journey, Thorpe shares how his life took a turn after being transferred to a facility in Maine just before the pandemic. "When I came to Maine, it was completely different," he recalled, noting how the isolation during COVID-19 offered him a chance to reflect and aspire for a better future. During his time at the Mountain View Correctional Facility, Thorpe earned a degree remotely from the University of Maine at Augusta. His story is not just about personal redemption; it also highlights a broader shift in rehabilitative practices within the prison system. Maine's Department of Corrections has embraced innovative approaches to reduce recidivism, focusing on education and employment opportunities for inmates. Thorpe is now one of approximately 30 inmates employed in the Earned Living Unit, a facility designed for those demonstrating good behavior. This program allows inmates to work while contributing a portion of their earnings to the state, showcasing a model that balances rehabilitation with responsibility. Haley Shoaf from Unlocked Labs emphasizes Maine's role as a leader in employing formerly incarcerated individuals in tech roles, noting the societal benefits of such programs. Commissioner Randall Liberty, who oversees these initiatives, has advocated for addressing the root causes of criminal behavior, such as substance abuse and mental health issues. His approach has led to a significant reduction in recidivism rates in Maine compared to national averages, illustrating that investing in education and support can lead to safer communities. Thorpe embodies the potential for change, taking full accountability for his past while embracing his new identity as a software engineer. "It feels like waking up from a dream," he said, reflecting on how far he has come. His journey from the streets to the tech world demonstrates the transformative power of hope and opportunity, even in the most unlikely circumstances.