Jesse Johnson's Personal Mission: Empowering Students Through Skilled Trades
In a society often focused on traditional college pathways, Federal Way High School in Washington state is carving a unique route for its students, one that leads directly to fulfilling and lucrative careers in the trades. Former State Representative Jesse Johnson, a community organizer and educator, is at the forefront of this initiative, emphasizing the importance of hands-on skills and mentorship for young people.
A recent conversation with Trae Holiday, Johnson highlighted the program's mission: to provide juniors and seniors with direct access to trades after graduation. Whether aspiring to be electricians, plumbers, painters, or general contractors, students are given the opportunity to gain job site and classroom experience, network, and receive valuable mentorship. This "running start for the trades" aims to equip young individuals with the skills necessary for livable wage jobs in today's economy.
Johnson's personal connection to the trades adds a layer of authenticity to his efforts. His father, a painter and general contractor, learned the craft from his own father, creating a legacy of hands-on work. Recognizing that this aspect of history has been somewhat neglected, Johnson seeks to revive it, offering students an alternative to the traditional "college or military" narrative.
The program at Federal Way High School addresses not only the skills gap but also the issue of representation. Johnson acknowledges the challenges faced by students from the global majority who often find themselves alone on job sites and encounter discrimination. By building a strong program with alumni apprentices returning to teach, the initiative aims to create a safe and supportive environment.
One of the key strategies in dismantling the stigma around trades is showcasing their financial viability. Johnson shares stories of graduates earning $37 an hour right out of high school, proving that these careers can be highly rewarding. The school's diverse student population makes it the perfect place to create a pipeline for young women and men of color to enter the trades.
Federal Way High School's efforts are not confined to its own walls. The school hosts a STEAM event annually, where apprentices demonstrate their skills and engage with students from other schools. Partnerships with organizations like Habitat for Humanity, where students build tiny homes on campus, further elevate the program's visibility. A forthcoming documentary, in collaboration with Vault 89 Ventures and Doug Baldwin, aims to spread the blueprint for this initiative to other school districts.
Johnson's call to action is clear: community members working in the trades are encouraged to become mentors, and parents are urged to consider trade programs for their children. With a dedicated website and upcoming events, Federal Way High School is opening doors to a world of opportunity, proving that a successful career can be built with one's own hands.
