FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Everything you need to know about writing resumes with criminal records, employment gaps, and how our free career tools work.
RESUME BASICS
How do I write a resume with a felony conviction?
Lead with your strongest qualifications, not your record. Use a functional or combination format that highlights skills and certifications. Address the gap honestly but briefly. We specialize in framing criminal records so employers focus on what you bring to the table.
How do I explain employment gaps from incarceration?
Frame the gap around growth and preparation. Mention certifications earned, skills developed, volunteer work, or programs completed during that time. We create specific scripts for addressing incarceration gaps in interviews.
Do I need to disclose my criminal record to employers?
It depends on the job and jurisdiction. Many states have ban the box laws that prevent employers from asking on the initial application. Some jobs require disclosure. We provide word-for-word scripts for when and how to disclose, turning the conversation from a liability into a demonstration of growth.
OUR SERVICES
Is The Forge really free?
Yes. 100% free, no signup, no credit card. Upload your resume and get a Career Intelligence Report in about 10 minutes. The Refinery career toolkit is also free — just create an account. Human resume services ($175-$275) are available if you want Troy to write it personally.
What is The Refinery?
The Refinery is a free career toolkit you unlock by creating an account. It includes a resume builder with guided scaffolding, a disclosure planner for criminal record conversations, AI interview practice, a fair-chance job board, and a resource hub. Your progress is saved so you can keep building over time.
How much does a professional resume cost?
All AI tools are free — The Forge report and The Refinery toolkit cost nothing. Human-crafted resumes by Troy start at $175 (1 resume), $250 (2 resumes), or $275 (urgent). The tools are free because they scale. Troy's time is what costs money.
What does Steel Man Resumes specialize in?
Justice-impacted employment. People with felony convictions, incarceration gaps, addiction recovery, trauma histories, homelessness, job hopping, career changes, and no-degree candidates. 900+ resumes over 10+ years.
FAIR CHANCE EMPLOYMENT
What are ban the box laws?
Ban the Box laws prohibit employers from asking about criminal history on initial job applications. Fair chance hiring policies delay background checks until after a conditional offer. Laws vary by state. We maintain a comprehensive guide.
What industries hire people with criminal records?
Warehouse, manufacturing, trades (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, welding), construction, food service, logistics, transportation, landscaping, and many tech companies with fair chance hiring policies.
Who is Troy Richard Carr?
Founder of Steel Man Resumes, based in Waukesha, Wisconsin. 900+ resumes in 10+ years for candidates with felonies, incarceration gaps, addiction recovery, and trauma histories. Also founded The Midnight Garden (AEO consulting). Lean Six Sigma trained, 15+ years in hands-on operations.
STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
Call Troy directly or start with a free Career Intelligence Report.
Or explore our comprehensive guides covering felony resumes, employment gaps, interview scripts, and more.