Kyle Jones – Offering Better Alternatives

Over 20 years ago, Kyle Jones used his experience working for ColeJon (an HVAC, facilities management company his father co-founded), to launch KBJ Incorporated. KBJ’s focus is construction management, facility support services and general contracting.

Though his construction experience and journey was developed with opportunities afforded him due to his father having co-founded ColeJon in the 1970s, Jones was aware that many young people may not have the same type of support or access. Understanding this, he has committed his time and experience to ACE. Six years ago, Jones became a dedicated ACE Mentor, serving at Max Hayes/New Tech West and now Collinwood. 
 
Why did you become involved in ACE?
 
I wanted to have a positive effect on inner city youth. The dynamics of their households are different than mine were. I wanted to let them know that you don’t have to sell drugs or play sports to make it in this world. There are real opportunities out here if you’re willing to work. 
 
ACE’s message is that attending college is not the only answer. Someone must join the unions and perform the work. We all can’t since behind a desk. We looked around and realized that there aren’t enough people learning a trade. We need more. We have buildings that need to be built and we don’t have anyone to build them. 
 
What are the best aspects about working with the youth and the program?

 
Their energy and creativity is contagious.  I benefit from serving as their Mentor. I’m building relationships and helping them plan their futures - deciding what their career path could and should be.  
 
It’s a great feeling when we see kids that have finished the program and come back to share their successes. 
 
What is unique about your experience? What has surprised you?
 
Kids actually learn about the architecture, construction and engineering fields. They are exposed to how projects are conceived, the actual work that is performed and their conclusion.  
 
I’m pleasantly surprised at how much the program has grown. The number of businesses involved and the amount of schools who want the program is amazing.
 
What do you love about the ACE program?
 
The students and the teachers who sacrifice their time to stay after school hours and host the program. The teachers are dedicated volunteers. They don’t have to do it…but they do. 
 
What is Your Industry Involvement Beyond ACE? 
 
I am active with Construction Employers Association (CEA) where I, and my employees, attend continuing education classes to better serve the construction industry.  CEA offers classes such as blueprint reading, estimating, OSHA 30 training, Building Information Modeling (BIM), and Lean Construction. I also serve as the Vice President of the Contractors Assistance Association, an affiliate of the CEA. We promote programs that assist small minority contractors in building capacity and sustainable businesses spanning multiple generations.
 
How Do You Spend Your Time Outside of Work? 
 
When I’m not busy, I love racing my motorcycle at various tracks in the Midwest and on the East Coast. I play tennis, share Christ with the incarcerated, teach a Bible study group, volunteer at the Haven of Rest, and garden.