Teresa Jones: Trailblazer for Future Generations
Despite the challenging odds as a single pregnant woman just entering the workforce, Teresa Jones never gave up on her dreams. Tenacity, faith and determination helped her stay the course, pursue a lifetime of public service, and blaze a trail for others to follow.
Born and raised in Orange County, Jones always held a deep sense of pride in her community. It’s that passion that led her to a career in local government.
“I love my community and want to see my community at its best,” she said. “I love informing and educating the community, and I think that’s what drives me.”
Jones currently serves as a Senior Code Compliance Inspector, leading a team that enforces laws and regulations to protect public health, safety and welfare. They also ensure businesses comply with local, state and federal codes.
To Jones it’s not just work, but something she refers to as heart posture. “Heart posture is a position I take where my heart is postured toward love, and toward reaching out to the community.”
Celebrating Black History Month is deeply personal to Jones.
“I am black history. I came from absolutely nothing. I pressed forward and achieved my goal of both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree,” she said. “That’s what black history is. Somebody who didn’t quit. Someone who persevered.”
She hopes her story inspires others to pursue their dreams despite adversity.
“I think it’s an important story to tell. There might be someone who has lost hope,” she said. “I hope my story encourages them to keep going. It is achievable as long as you do not stop pursuing.”
She gained valuable experience working across various government departments, learning and growing in each role. Jones started as an entry-level clerk typist for Public Utilities and then transitioned to support the Fire Chief. She was then promoted to the Building Division as a Minimum Housing Inspector, eventually earning certification as a building inspector.
She balanced a full-time job and motherhood while earning a bachelor’s degree in business management and a master’s degree in business administration.
Her career path wasn’t without challenges in what was then a male-dominated field.
“It was rough because of how I looked. I was a female and the only African American. It was extremely tough,” she said. “They looked at me and thought I didn’t know my job.”
Jones held her ground, worked hard and earned respect in the field. She holds the distinction of being the first Black female Building Inspector in Orange County.
She praised the mentors who encouraged and guided her remarkable journey.
“My managers would push me to my limits. They trusted me and always believed in me,” she said. “One of my leaders said you are just as qualified and just as good as anyone. That’s something I will never forget.”
She pays it forward in her leadership by consistently encouraging, pushing and praising her team.
When not at work or with family, Jones can be found spreading positivity at her church, sorority and the W.E. Freeman Outreach Center, an organization that services low-income communities.