Blueprints of Resilience
At just 21, Ahjhir "AJ" Jones isn’t just another name on a roster—he’s a testament to grit, growth, and ambition. Once a young man navigating turbulent challenges, AJ has transformed his life, earning his place as a proud member of the Local 787 Union and securing an astonishing 14 industry certifications. A 2022 graduate of LEAD Charter School, his journey is more than a story of overcoming adversity, it’s a masterclass in resilience and the life-changing power of the YouthBuild model.
AJ's educational journey was initially tumultuous. At his previous school, he found himself "fighting every day" in what he describes as a "bad environment." LEAD Charter School, however, didn't just accept AJ—it actively sought him out. "I didn't find LEAD. LEAD found me," AJ explains. His mother had applied to the school for him, but he was reluctant, expecting strict rules that would clash with his rebellious nature. What he discovered instead was transformative.
At LEAD Charter School, which implements the YouthBuild model of education and workforce development, AJ experienced something unprecedented in his academic life: genuine support and empowerment. He found faculty who would call his home, make sure he had a ride to school, and ensure he stayed on track academically. The environment fostered responsibility and respect and empowered AJ to take control of his own future. For AJ, this approach was revolutionary.
"When I came to school, it was like I had actual family. I'm not just talking about the students. I'm talking about the faculty," AJ emphasizes. "I could talk to somebody and they wouldn't let me walk away without making sure I was okay."
With its emphasis on Career Technical Education (CTE), LEAD offers young people the opportunity to earn their high school diploma or equivalency, as well as certifications in the fields of Allied Health and construction. While AJ initially explored Allied Health, he soon realized it wasn't for him. Construction, under the guidance of instructor Terry Lang, became his passion. He learned to build houses from the ground up while earning seven different certifications - a feat he notes is difficult even for experienced workers.
"It's hard for 40-year-old men who have been doing solid work to get into a union," AJ observed, highlighting the value of his early training. “Because of LEAD, I was prepared for those rigors.”
However, success is often not a straight line, and AJ's path certainly wasn't without obstacles. He was incarcerated the week before his intended graduation, forcing him to return the following year to earn 40 remaining credits. Despite initial reluctance, he committed himself fully, even taking a Chromebook home to make sure he met deadlines.
After graduating, AJ faced another setback when William Patterson University denied his application, suggesting community college first. "It took a lot of confidence away," he admits. "Even though I want to better myself, it's like people were still not trying to allow me to."
AJ's breakthrough came when his former instructor contacted him about an OSHA class. This led to additional certifications, including flagging and scaffolding credentials, plus documentation allowing him to work in New York as a New Jersey resident. Through a six-week Building Maintenance program offered by the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters in collaboration with the Newark Workforce Development Board, AJ mastered skills in safety, flooring, door hardware, and sheet rock installation.
His determination and growing expertise eventually earned him membership in the Local 787 Union, an achievement that fills him with pride. "I'm a licensed contractor, and I say that with a flex. I'm 21 years old with probably 14 different certifications in this field."
Today, AJ is working to change perceptions about who belongs in construction. He noted the scarcity of Black men and women on construction sites and wants to do what he can to actively share opportunities with others, especially young people at risk of street involvement. "I hate the streets," he states bluntly. "You're not gonna really understand until you get older and wiser...once you get to a certain age, you're gonna want nothing but peace and stability."
For those following in his footsteps, AJ's advice is clear: persist despite doubters, embrace failure as part of growth, and don't be afraid to ask for help.
"It's okay to fail," he insists. "I trained my butt off and failed probably 90% of the time, but that 10% that I didn't fail on made me into who I am today."
AJ's journey from overcoming challenges to becoming a certified tradesman in two states is a testament to how resilience and opportunity can serve as the blueprint to lasting careers and a meaningful life.
