Flash Forward Alumni Spotlight: Jesse Johnson '08

From Quiet Observer to Community Leader

Make the most of every opportunity, meet people, and network as much as possible. Every day is an opportunity to be the best version of yourself.

Jesse Johnson, M.Ed

Federal Way High School, Class of 2008
University of Washington, Class of 2012

Federal Way High School alum Jesse Johnson has built a career defined by service, leadership, and a deep commitment to community. From a quiet, curious student who loved writing and history to becoming the youngest City Councilmember in Federal Way’s history and later a State Representative, Jesse’s journey reflects the power of hard work, mentorship, and staying true to your values. Today, he continues uplifting communities across Washington through his work in public service and inspiring the next generation of civic leaders, all while remaining closely connected to Federal Way Public Schools through advocacy and involvement.

FWPS: How would you describe yourself as a student? What was school like for you growing up?  

Jesse: I was a quiet observer growing up, enjoyed writing and learning about history. I always loved to learn and was curious about the world around me. I participated in many different peer groups and played sports.  

My parents always taught me the importance of education, and as the oldest of four siblings, I often felt the responsibility to be excellent. 

FWPS: What activities, programs, or classes were you involved in during high school? 

Jesse: In high school, I took AP courses. I struggled in math, but always loved language arts and history. I was a National Honor Society student, played basketball, and lettered in tennis and track and field. I went to state in the 400-meter and 4x4 relay in track as a senior, and was featured as the King 5 Gametime Spotlight Athlete for Track in 2008. 

FWPS: Did you know what you wanted to do after high school graduation, and if so, what was it?

Jesse: I was originally focused on going to college and studying Business. I was interested in Construction and Project Management, and grew up working with my dad in the trades.

FWPS: Was there anyone along the way, at school or in your personal life, who influenced your career interests or helped shape your path? 

Jesse: Yes, definitely. My parents were always my biggest mentors, my dad being a general contractor and my mom being the first in the family to graduate from college from the University of Washington. Many teachers also had a positive influence on me: Lyn Stultz, my 7th-grade Language Arts teacher, who cultivated my passion for writing, Andy Cameron, my high school History teacher, and Pam Ashe, my high school College Writing teacher, who both supported my journey to college.

FWPS: Following high school, what inspired you on your career path?

Jesse: For sure. I happened to be a senior in high school when former President Obama launched his campaign for president in 2008, and I remember my dad taking me to hear him speak in Seattle on the campaign trail, which first piqued my interest in politics.  Then, as a freshman at the University of Washington, I joined the Young Democrats club and campaigned for President Obama. That is when I changed my major to Political Science, and my interest in public policy really took off.  I also minored in Education and African American studies.

As I began to really take an interest in local politics, I volunteered for former State Senator Tracey Eide’s campaign and interned with Congressman Adam Smith in Washington, DC, during the summer of 2011 as a college junior. Those experiences also inspired me to join AmeriCorps for my first job after college as a student teacher at Garfield High School. Following two years of teaching service, I went back to the University of Washington to earn my Master's in Education while working in Seattle Public Schools as a Family Engagement Specialist, followed by Highline Public Schools as a High School Career and College Counselor. 

FWPS: So, what have you been up to since?

Jesse: In the spring of 2017, I decided to run for public office and was elected the youngest City Councilmember in the history of Federal Way at the age of 27, knocking on over 15,000 doors and defeating a two-term incumbent. As a City Councilmember, I sponsored and passed an apprenticeship utilization ordinance on city projects, launched a mentorship program called Emerging Leaders, and helped create our first Senior Advisory Commission.  

Following 3 years on the City Council, I was appointed to the State Legislature in 2019 and was elected to the seat in 2020. As the youngest State Representative at the time, at the age of 30, I sponsored and passed ten bills in two terms, including comprehensive police accountability legislation, and established a statewide standard of de-escalation and less lethal force. I also passed legislation to provide youth access to an attorney when questioned or interrogated by police. My favorite policies were helping to secure funding for our Construction Pre-Apprenticeship program at Federal Way High School, in addition to getting funding to expand mental health services in schools.  

After completing two terms, I decided not to run for re-election to focus on supporting my wife in her medical residency and two young boys at home. Now, I work for my former seatmate in the State Legislature, Mike Pellicciotti, as the Director of Outreach & Community Engagement for the Office of the State Treasurer, where I manage our financial education program, connect local communities to financial services, and work to address issues like generational wealth gaps through policy initiatives.  

FWPS: What does a typical day look like for you in your current role? 

Jesse: A typical day is actually driving to visit different communities across the state, where I get to meet with and speak directly to people representing business, education, community-based organizations, and public policy. After the meetings, I work to bring back issues and ideas to our team. 

FWPS: Have there been any challenges or surprises in your career that you've learned from?

Jesse: There have been many challenges as a young person in public office and politics, but I have learned to be myself and speak my truth in every room I walk into. I have also learned the power of collaboration and partnership to find solutions to issues in the community.

FWPS: What's next for Jesse, let's say, in the next five years?

Jesse: In the next 5 years, I hope to be the best husband and father I can be. I also plan to return to politics at some point and run for public office again once my kids are in school.

FWPS: That's great! We're definitely rooting for you!

For students interested in your career pathway, what advice would you give them to get their foot in the door and succeed?

Jesse: There are many opportunities to get involved in local politics or policymaking, including internships at the state capitol. I have also partnered with the non-profit ‘Build 2 Lead’ in Federal Way Public Schools to start a Civic Champions program for juniors and seniors focused on getting young people more civically engaged and exposed to local politics. 

My advice to young people is to make the most of every opportunity, meet people, and network as much as possible. Every day is an opportunity to be the best version of yourself. You are the only you. 

To read more alumni stories, visit www.fwps.org/AlumniSpotlight.