I visited Alcatraz and was horrified listening to the prisoners tales of endlessly wasting away or sharing criminal knowledge. Our prison system is such a waste.
I would like to see prisoners be able to volunteer to work in different areas. This should of course depend on their good behavior.
I thought it would be interesting if any company could register than hire prisoners for jobs… but the prisoners can choose which company and which job. The prisoners would need to pay for their prison cell / upkeep but any money above and beyond that they could keep for when they get out of prison. I also thought that prisoners could volunteer for military units made up of prisoners and get paid regular military pay as well.
The most dangerous offenders would not be eligible for this sort of system.