HIP Spotlight: Damon Jones, Subject Matter Expert
HIP’s organizational success is built on the pillars of performance we bring to our clients and partners.
Adding to our strong pool of subject matter experts, Damon Jones brings skills, experience, and professionalism to HIP’s project teams. His dedication and commitment to excellence are evident in his work, with several projects such as the Youth Apprenticeship Readiness Grants (YARG) program, and workforce development projects like Partners for Reentry Opportunities in Workforce Development (PROWD).
Q. What services do you provide at HIP?
DJ. Consulting, subject matter expertise, management of communities of practice, content development, and technical assistance for various aspects of workforce development
Q. How did you get started in this line of work?
DJ. I first started consulting circa 2008; at the time working with small business owners to help them grow. In 2013, after leaving an analyst position with the D.C. Office of the State Superintendent of Education, I began my first education/workforce development consulting gig.
Q. How long have you been with HIP? Which projects have you worked on, and which projects are you working on now?
DJ. It’s been three and a half years. I’ve been able to contribute to several meaningful projects with HIP including YARG and PROWD mentioned earlier, as well as the Office of Apprenticeship Special Projects, Logistics and Technical Assistance Services (SPLTAS) project, and the Safal/WorkForceGPS system project.
Q. How do you stay self-motivated?
DJ. My son was born on 10/8/23 so he’s now a huge motivation. I was driven with the motivation and desire to take care of my family. My goals and checklists motivate me, too.
Q. What is the best career lesson you’ve learned so far?
DJ. Relationships are everything; more specifically, a symbiotic relationship. It’s best when everyone is giving. Surrounding yourself with people that inspire, encourage, and motivate you is golden. A friend can open a door that a degree or certification cannot.
Q. What are your future career goals?
DJ. I enjoy consulting because I get a thrill from solving problems for people and organizations. I recently completed the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program and look forward to growing the consultancy. After my time as a consultant, my ultimate goal is to transition into full-time philanthropy. I’ve founded two nonprofits—one focused on youth in STEM/STEAM and the other providing services to people experiencing homelessness.
Q. What/who do you read or follow?
DJ. I read the Bible for wisdom, instruction, and fulfillment. I read business development books, too. One example is the E-Myth (a gem!). I read a lot of articles and newsletters on topics of interest like farming, education, and technology. I follow Myron Golden, John Hope Bryant, Ray Dalio, and Marissa Levin.
Q. Outside of work, what do you like to do for fun?
DJ. Play with my son! My family and I do a lot of outdoors stuff – beaching, hiking, gardening/farming, golfing, and hugging the occasional tree. I make sure I get a lot of exercise, so I enjoy working out. And, last but not least: perfecting my home-made pizza recipe!