May 29, 2025 -- By the time most high school seniors are figuring out what’s next, Jayden Ashford already has blueprints in hand–not just for buildings, but for his life. The Northland High School senior, who also takes classes at the Fort Hayes Career Center, spent his high school years laying a solid foundation for a career in construction.
Thanks to the Career-Technical Education Programs offered by Columbus City Schools (CCS), Ashford joined the carpentry program in the Construction Technologies Pathway and gained experience in his desired career field.
After participating in “Shadow Day,” a full-day immersion experience for Fort Hayes juniors, Ashford was one of just seven selected from a pool of nearly 70 students for an internship with the City of Columbus Department of Building & Zoning Services (BZS). At the conclusion of the internship, one lucky student would be offered the opportunity to become an official trainee with the BZS team.
“I’ve always been interested in how things are made,” Ashford said. “Even as a kid, I loved building with Legos, and then Minecraft took it to another level. Being part of [an internship] let me see the real-world side of that.”
Ashford shadowed structural inspectors and soaked up everything he could about how buildings stay safe and sound. It didn’t take long for him to make a strong impression.
“Jayden just had ‘it,’” said Cynthia Rickman, assistant director at BZS. “From almost day one, Jayden was a standout. When they took him into the field, he asked a lot of questions. He was enthusiastic about the job and about learning.”
During the internship, he was placed with the structural inspection team, where he immediately demonstrated deep curiosity and drive–asking questions, studying building codes, and showing initiative well beyond expectations. He rotated through field visits, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and safety training, and workshops, all while getting paid to learn.
However, Ashford didn’t stop when the internship ended. He kept in touch with his mentors, studied building codes on his own time, and made it clear he was serious about turning this internship into a career. When BZS staff returned to Fort Hayes in the spring to meet with former interns, they asked students about their post-graduation plans.
“Jayden said, ‘I want to work for BZS,’” Rickman recalled. “And they said, ‘Well, we’re glad to hear that, because we’re here to tell you that we have selected you as the trainee.’ He said, ‘You have made my life.’”
This opportunity is significant. The trainee program, approved by the State of Ohio, is designed to fast-track young talent into careers as certified building inspectors, positions that can pay over $80,000 per year. Trainees like Jayden start at a salary of $60,000 straight out of high school. Their two years of trade experience at Fort Hayes as part of CTE program count toward the five-year requirement to sit for the state licensing exam.
Ashford thanks the teachers and mentors who believed in and molded him. He credits several Northland educators for helping shape his worldview and fueling his love of history and government.
“They didn’t just teach facts,” Ashford said. “They taught us how to think for ourselves, how to form our own opinions.”
He carries those lessons with him everywhere–literally. In his wallet are “Know Your Rights” cards and business cards from peers he admires. He speaks passionately about staying informed, being kind, and giving back. Though he’s proud of his accomplishments, he remains grounded.
“Even with everything I want to do, I always want to stay humble and help people,” Ashford said.
Outside of school and work, Ashford is still creating. He loves modifying things, making tools, and dreaming up projects.
For younger students, Ashford’s advice is clear: “Start early. Try new things. Join a club or a sport. There are a lot of people in CCS who care. If you show up and listen, they’ll help you go far.”
As Columbus prepares to welcome its newest trainee, Rickman says Ashford is more than a great intern.
“He’s already reached out to one of the inspectors from last summer and asked him to be his mentor,” Rickman said. “That tells you everything. He’s ready. He wants this.”
Matt Blake, carpentry instructor at Fort Hayes Career Center, offered Ashford words of wisdom and encouragement as he begins the next chapter of his journey.
“I wish you all the blessings you deserve in life,” Blake said. “You have made me laugh, and we are all rooting for your success. Now go start your story. Welcome to the workforce, Jayden.”
Ashford isn’t just building structures. He’s building a future for himself, his family, and his community. Just like the buildings he’ll one day inspect, it’s a future built to last. He’s a disruptor in the best sense: challenging expectations, forging a new path, and inspiring those around him.
