Like every TDCJ correctional officer, CO IV Jesus Carbajal is determined to fulfill his daily work duties in support of his fellow Correctional Institutions Division staff members. “Because if I don’t do it, we might be short,” says Carbajal, “I’d rather us be fully staffed and ready to work. I’d rather us be safe, secure.”
Seeking to take on an additional, more personal challenge, Carbajal resolved to commute by bicycle to and from his workplace at the McConnell Unit in Beeville, even during the early and late hours of day, and while dealing with the threat of traffic hazards found on the road.
Assistant Warden Gene Miller became curious and asked the correctional officer about his bike-riding habit. Carbajal’s explanation was clear and simple, “Well sir, I like riding my bike. People count on me. I have a responsibility. My coworkers and my unit and my job rely on me.”
Miller noted that “(Carbajal) rides his bike on a daily basis and has been doing it for quite some time. I found that very interesting, because I had an officer who was willing to ride his bike to work no matter what.” The assistant warden also commented on the significance of this officer’s dedication and perseverance, saying “It shows that we have correctional officers day in and day out doing their job, and this is just another example of we have outstanding officers out there committed to the agency, committed to doing the job, committed to our core values.”
TDCJ implemented the Core Values program in 2013, establishing Perseverance, Integrity, Courage and Commitment as guiding principles for agency employees. The Core Values curriculum is a fundamental part of pre-service and in-service training for all correctional officers, and its application has expanded beyond the security ranks to include non-uniformed agency staff.
As CO Carbajal pedals through a ten-mile round trip every workday, he notices and interacts with a world that most people just ignore as they drive by. “I get to experience more of my surroundings,” said Carbajal, “I get to meet new people. I get to have better experiences. I like coming to work knowing that I’m making a difference. I like coming here knowing that even though I’m providing for my family, I’m also helping others provide for theirs.”
Through his daily bicycle trek, Carbajal demonstrates the discipline and endurance needed to overcome the physical and mental challenges of a self-powered commute to and from the job. “Sometimes I have to push myself and even if it’s cold or it’s raining, not everyone is going to be able to stop (to help) me. You have to make sure you do what you have to do, and show that you are willing to persevere and have commitment to keep going forward. I always want to go farther even if it’s cold. I’ll go farther. I’ll keep going. I’m not going to stop. That’s my drive.”
