Philip Sonnenberg
La Porte,IN
Summary
Dynamic leader with extensive experience at Westville Correctional Facility, excelling in training program development and team motivation. Proven ability to enhance operational efficiency and employee performance through strategic planning and effective communication. Skilled in policy development and conflict resolution, fostering a culture of growth and accountability within the team.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
Work History
Unit Team Manager
Westville Correctional Facility
Westville, IN
10.2016 - Current
- Acting Deputy Warden when requested.
- Motivated team members to consistently achieve or exceed performance expectations.
- Created shift schedules and coordinated with team members to maintain sufficient staffing levels during employee absences.
- Led regular team meetings to communicate current policy and procedure and relevant updates.
- Analyzed and measured employee performance, taking appropriate disciplinary action or recognition based on work performance.
- Oversaw daily workloads and workflow for smooth operations.
- Conducted regular employee performance evaluations to offer constructive feedback and solutions to propel improvements and growth.
- Delegated work assignments and prioritized tasks.
- Suggested various operational strategies to increase programming and jobs for incarcerated individuals.
- Set goals for performance and deadlines to comply with IDOC vision and goals.
- Initiated training sessions and coached employees to develop effective staff.
- Held regular one-on-one meetings with employees to review performance and priorities and provide feedback.
Regional Training Manager
Indiana Department Of Corrections
Indianapolis, IN
04.2006 - 10.2016
- Oversaw training operations for the facilities in the northern region.
- Developed new training programs in compliance with IDOC Policy and Procedure.
- Effectively trained instructors and supervisors on techniques for managing employees.
- Led specialized training classes, including Leadership Academy, EEL, and FTO.
- Presented training information via role playing, simulations and team exercises.
- Mentored team members to succeed and advance within the Department.
- Analyzed each department's training needs and developed new training programs based upon data collected.
- Managed training calendar for entire fiscal year, including setting course plans and training spaces.
Correctional Officer
Westville Correctional Facility
Westville, IN
03.1997 - 04.2006
- Inspected bed areas and conducted random searches of common areas.
- Informed incarcerated individuals and visitors of rules, safety, and security procedures and responsibilities.
- Monitored daily activities to identify and manage suspicious behavior, improper conduct and signs of conflict.
- Maintained clear and open communications with all staff.
- Detected potential threats and quickly defused conflicts.
- Transported incarcerated individuals to and from medical and dental appointments, funerals, work details, and court hearings.
- Enforced behavior management protocols and drafted incident reports for infractions.
- Supervised residents during meal distribution and intake, recreation time and work-site performance.
Education
High School Diploma -
Heritage Academy
New Buffalo, Michigan05-1994
Some College (No Degree) - Criminal Justice/Business Management
Pensacola Christian College
Pensacola, FLSkills
- IDOC Leadership Academy graduate
- IDOC EEL Program graduate
- IDOC Executive Leadership Program graduate
- Previous E-Squad Team Leader
- Previous SITCON Team Leader
- Assisted with the development of Policies for IDOC
- Developed training programs and workflow charts for the Department
- Instructed leadership courses for multiple agencies including IDOC Correctional Facilities, Parole Districts and county jails
Accomplishments
- Non-Custody Supervisor of the Quarter in 2018
- Non-Custody Supervisor of the Year in 2019
Timeline
Unit Team Manager
Westville Correctional Facility
10.2016 - Current
Regional Training Manager
Indiana Department Of Corrections
04.2006 - 10.2016
Correctional Officer
Westville Correctional Facility
03.1997 - 04.2006
High School Diploma -
Heritage Academy
Some College (No Degree) - Criminal Justice/Business Management
Pensacola Christian College