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A career that changes lives, including your own

Published 8:36 pm Sunday, March 8, 2026

Matt Hawes found more than a job at BC Corrections – he found a calling rooted in compassion, connection and change

In 2000, Matt Hawes attended a BC Corrections info session to collect information for his brother. While his brother ended up choosing a different path, Hawes discovered something unexpected for himself there 2– a meaningful career that’s now spanned 25 years.

“I’d always enjoyed working with people and helping my community,” says Hawes, now the Provincial Recruitment Officer with BC Corrections’ Adult Custody Division. “That’s really the foundation of what we do – supporting people in becoming contributing members of society again.”

Hawes notes that the role of a correctional officer is often misunderstood.

“Corrections work is about public safety and sometimes that includes being involved in high-stress situations. Our work happens inside the facility – building trust, developing strong working relationships, and supporting individuals in their personal growth. We see them every day and get to know them in a way others rarely do,” he adds.

The path to becoming a correctional officer starts with an application process, which includes written and physical assessments such as the Correctional Officer Physical Abilities Test (COPAT). The process, Hawes says, is designed to prepare candidates before they even begin training.

“By the time recruits enter our paid 33-day paid training program, they’ve already demonstrated commitment and resilience,” he says. “That training gives them the tools they need to start strong – and we continue building from there.”

Upon successful completion of training, candidates are offered a full-time position. New officers begin with a six-month probationary period that includes mentorship and job-based coaching. Ongoing professional development is supported through a variety of learning and training opportunities, providing significant potential for both personal and professional growth, and for advancement within a fulfilling and dynamic career.

“It’s not a typical 9-to-5,” Hawes says. “It’s dynamic, challenging and pushes you to grow in ways you never expected.”

Over his 25 years with BC Corrections, many moments stand out but he recalls one in particular that shows the impact dedicated officers can have. While leading a woodworking program, Hawes mentored a young man awaiting sentencing. The man was later transferred to a federal facility.

“He wrote to me from federal custody,” Hawes recalls. “He said I was like the father he never had. He thanked me for the impact I’d made while he was under my supervision. It’s a powerful reminder that success in our field isn’t always about big, dramatic changes – sometimes it’s one step forward that’s never happened before.

“For many in our custody, this is the only support, structure and consistency they’ve ever known. In some ways, it’s easier for them to be here than out in the world. Our job is to help shift that mindset and give them the tools to succeed beyond our walls,” he adds.

Hawes believes that strong communication skills, fairness, integrity, empathy and authenticity are essential qualities in a correctional officer.

“Our clients know when you’re being genuine. They need people who are consistent, firm and real – that’s where trust begins.”

For those looking for a career with purpose, growth and the chance to make a lasting differencein the lives of others, BC Corrections offers more than a job – it offers a path forward.

Start your application today at BC Corrections Careers.