Jesse Johnson Talks Apprenticeship Programs and Police Reform Legislature on The ‘Mother’s Justice Show’
Jesse Johnson (left) and Omari Salisbury (right) pose in the Hubbard Radio Seattle studio in Bellevue, Washington. (Photo: Converge Media)
This week on The Mother’s Justice Show, guest host Omari Salisbury welcomed former Washington State Representative Jesse Johnson to discuss his journey from the legislative rotunda back to deep-rooted community advocacy.
Jesse, who represented the 30th Legislative District from 2020 to 2023, encompassing Federal Way and parts of Auburn and Des Moines, is now focusing his energy on empowering the next generation through trade apprenticeships and continuing his lifelong mission of public service.
The Construction Trade Revolution
Jesse is currently spearheading efforts to connect high school students with careers in the construction trades. He emphasized that innovation is a form of protest, especially when it creates pathways to economic stability outside of traditional four-year degrees.
He outlined a myriad of programs, notably the Federal Way Pre-Apprenticeship Program. This program provides high school juniors and seniors with hands-on training in welding, electrical work, painting, and masonry.
Jesse explained that students earn skills and a degree simultaneously, essentially a "running start" for the trades. With an average salary of $101,000 for those five years into the trade, these careers offer a viable alternative to the tech industry, where many jobs are currently being disrupted by generative AI.
Jesse Johnson talks on air in the 1150 KKNW AM studio in Bellevue, Washington. (Photo: Jordan Somers)
A Legislative Legacy of Justice
Jesse reflected on the five-year anniversary of his landmark police reform legislation, which passed during a period of intense racial reckoning in 2021. The first bill tackled dangerous tactics head-on, outright banning practices like chokeholds and no-knock warrants. The second established a clear expectation that de-escalation must be an officer’s first instinct, reserving deadly force as the absolute last resort.
The Heart of a Servant Leader
When asked which role felt more fulfilling—passing laws in Olympia or working with youth—Jesse chose the latter without hesitation. He noted that while policy is essential, it is often hampered by "red tape" and egos.
Quoting Dr. Cornel West, Jesse reminded listeners that "you can’t lead the people unless you love the people.” He expressed that true leadership requires proximity to the community's pain and a deep commitment to those furthest from justice.
Jesse remains hopeful because of the unapologetic nature of the current generation of youth. His goal is to continue "giving them the mic" and ensuring they have the tools, both legislative and economic, to lead the community forward.
Listen to the full interview here, and tune into The Mother’s Justice Show every Monday from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. on 1150 AM KKNW.
Learn more about Jesse Johnson’s previous legislative bills here, and the Federal Way Pre-Apprenticeship Program here.
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