Minnie Jones: A Success Story in Learning, Earning and Breaking the Mold

Not only is Minnie Jones an undeniable success story of the Learn & Earn Corporate Internship Program, but at 21, she’s already a success story in how young women can break the mold and make their mark in male-dominated workspaces. Unafraid of other people’s perceptions, confident with her beliefs, and sharp as a tack, Minnie Jones’ personality, as well as work ethic, is one for future interns to bookmark, study, and ace. With individuals as passionate, fearless, and talented as Ms. Jones, the future of the skilled trades industry (and workforce at large) can only become a stronger, more innovative, and capable place for all. Between her infectious personality and natural ability to lead, Minnie early-on demonstrated strong communication skills, but it was her intricate way of solving problems that led her mother to believe she “had the mind of an engineer.” Often more inclined to play with legos than dolls as a child, Minnie found interest in the process of putting pieces to a puzzle together to ultimately create something meaningful. 

It is that creative component to problem-solving that still fuels and inspires Minnie’s work to this day.

Minnie graduated from Baldwin Senior High School in 2017, where she memorably presented a youth Ted Talk about the importance of breaking stereotypes and the game changers leading the charge. During her three semesters at the University of Pittsburgh Johnstown, she majored in Civil Engineering, co-founded the National Society of Black Engineers, participated in Habitat for Humanity, led orientations, and presided over (and founded) the school’s A Capella group, Treble in the Making. After taking a brief break from classes, in 2019 Minnie returned to school at CCAC where she assumed a work-study position in the office of Student Life and Engagement. Not long after joining CCAC, Minnie’s drive and inclination to lead took off once again as she became Secretary of the Student Government Association, Campus Activities Board Member, Student Ambassador, Tour Guide, Secretary of the Drama Club, and most recently, a participant in the Pathways to Professional Careers program. Through the Pathways program, Minnie’s credits will be transferred to Point Park University in the fall of 2021 where she plans to complete her bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Looking to pick up a summer job and gain hands-on experience in the field, last summer Minnie enrolled in Learn & Earn after learning about it from her Pathways to Professional Careers Counselor, Cara Fulton. With the program’s multitude of career tracks (including construction and engineering), professional development, and networking opportunities, the program was the perfect chance for Minnie to pick up new skills and make some meaningful connections. Not long after Minnie submitted her application, was she given an interview, and even sooner, offered a summer position with P.J. Dick Construction. During her time at P.J. Dick, Minnie broadened her construction knowledge by supporting the construction team with project management, communication coordination between contractors, and leading site surveys. P.J. Dick was not the only organization that benefitted from Minnie’s talent last summer, however. Minnie served as the Master of Ceremonies during the Learn & Earn ‘Workforce Wednesdays’ webinar series, and for the virtual Learn & Earn closing celebration hosted by Partner4Work, Minnie participated in a dynamic conversation with keynote speakers, County Executive Rich Fitzgerald and Mayor William Peduto

Now one year later, both in the workplace, as well as the classroom, Minnie’s hard work continues to pay off. 

Shortly following the success of Minnie’s Learn & Earn internship, Minnie assumed a role as an apprentice with Public Allies, where she currently supports Vibrant Pittsburgh as their Talent Engagement and Community Relations Public Ally. She also recently was awarded the PennACE JoAnne Day Student of the Year Award for her undergraduate accomplishments. 

Any student apprehensive about whether or not to enroll in the Learn & Earn corporate or general program should take a page out of Minnie’s book. Between the experiences she’s gained and the new relationships she’s formed, this program helped guide Minnie’s long-term goals and provided her real-world experience in the industry in which she is most passionate. Boldly taking space in a male-dominated industry, Minnie’s impact on the future of the corporate Learn & Earn program resonates now more than ever. It is our hope that this influence encourages all participants to bravely take part in the industries in which they are most passionate and to not let antiquated stereotypes or stigmas hold them back. Between her intelligence, kindness, and exceptional skill set, we know Minnie’s role as a leader in the Pittsburgh community is only getting started and her success story has countless chapters to go. One thing is for certain -- we can’t wait to keep on reading.