Chicago MEPS Education Innovator Recognized by Governor

When Dr. Johnny D. Jones, education services specialist at Chicago Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS), set out to build stronger partnerships between USMEPCOM and Illinois schools, he didn’t expect to receive recognition from the state’s highest office. After years of collaborative outreach, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker issued a proclamation recognizing Dr. Jones for his innovative efforts in advancing the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) Career Exploration Program (CEP) and piloting the School Staff Testing (SST) model across Illinois.

The proclamation highlights Dr. Jones’ work with local and state officials to expand awareness of the ASVAB CEP, a program that helps students identify career pathways aligned with their skills and interests, and his leadership in integrating the new SST model into schools statewide.

“It’s about being innovative,” Jones said. “We’re not just supporting military recruitment, we’re advancing career exploration through strong partnerships with educators, city officials and community stakeholders.”

Working with partners such as Chicago’s 6th Ward Councilman William Hall and State Representative Michelle Mussman, Dr. Jones has helped bridge the gap between the ASVAB CEP and the Illinois Postsecondary and Career Expectations (PaCE) framework. The PaCE program provides a roadmap for students in grades 8–12 to ensure they are career ready and equipped with the tools necessary for success after graduation. When Jones presented the ASVAB CEP to Illinois education leaders, they immediately saw how the program aligned with the state’s existing goals.

“By the end of 11th grade, Illinois students are expected to participate in mock interviews, take college entrance exams and build relationships that support their postsecondary plans,” he said. “Those objectives are already embedded within the ASVAB CEP. It fits right in.”

That alignment has led to growing momentum statewide. Chicago MEPS has increased the number of schools participating in the SST model. Jones has presented the program to the Illinois School Counselor Association and Chicago Public Schools. Dr. Jones, US Army National Guard veteran and former higher education administrator, credits his varied experience for shaping his approach.

“I look at the program from every angle,” he said. “When you do that, you realize how important it is to engage everyone from schools, parents, policymakers and community advocates to create sustainable, long-term partnerships.”

Dr. Jones plans to visit Springfield in spring 2026 to celebrate the proclamation formally and continue discussions with state legislators about an ASVAB related bill.

“The proclamation is a recognition of commitment,” he said. “It shows that Illinois values innovation and collaboration to help students discover their strengths and plan for successful futures. That’s exactly what the ASVAB CEP is all about.”