Will County Leadership Series – Joseph L. Johnson

Continuing the celebration of Black History Month, Will County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant is proud to announce the next person in the Will County Leadership Series. Throughout February, these community leaders will be highlighted and will share their thoughts on the importance of recognizing Black History.
County Executive Bertino-Tarrant would like to thank these leaders who have stepped forward to share their thoughts, including Joseph L. Johnson (“Coach Joe”), Founder of the Ice and Fire Leadership Academy.

1. As a local leader, why is Black History Month important to you?
Black History month is important to me because it gives a TRUE timeline to an entire new generation of their heritage and their positive contributions to U.S. society and world society. It’s an accounting of what strong stock and Character we are made of.

2. Why do you think it’s important for everyone to learn about Black History?
Without a true accounting of Black History, our stories, our test and trials, our advancements in EVERY area of life against ALL purposely placed obstacles…without knowing it, you could NEVER truly know and understand American History. They are one. Black History is American History. Education is the only way to ensure we don’t repeat injustices and human cruelty. It’s the only way to understand how and why we are a world power.

About Coach Joe
As owner of Chicagoland’s oldest, minority-owned elevator repair and construction company, Skyway Elevators, you would think that would keep Joe Johnson exceptionally busy. But he and his wife Joyce also find time to operate J & J Vending Company, R Little Secret Catering Company, and the Ice and Fire Leadership Academy.
Johnson takes his position as a mentor and role model very seriously and has found a unique way to connect with local youth through sports to teach valuable life lessons and make a meaningful impact on creating leaders of tomorrow. He works with youth ages 11 to 24 years old in Bolingbrook, Romeoville, and their surrounding areas, mentoring them on life skills covering a full spectrum of activities and developmental skills for success and motivation.