Celebrating Black History Month 2025: Brent Johnson
Brent Johnson’s story embodies the essence of this year’s Black History Month theme, “African Americans and Labor.” From the values instilled by his family to his commitment to creating opportunities for others at SSC Services for Education, his journey reflects the strength, resilience, and leadership that have defined Black contributions to the workforce.
Brent is a devoted husband to Lindsey, and father to nine-year-old Skylar and Nathan, who is 5. Family has always been his greatest joy and motivation. As the youngest of three, he grew up in Hickory, North Carolina, a place he returned to after college and still proudly calls home.
Outside of work, Brent is an avid sports fan who enjoys competing in anything sports-related, especially golf. He also co-hosts a podcast, 4th and Goal Ministries, alongside his college teammates, where they share weekly devotionals and reflections on faith.
Brent began his career in healthcare, where he developed a passion for working with others and leading teams. His career path eventually brought him to SSC, where he now serves as Regional Manager for the Winston-Salem K-12 account, a role he has held for just over a year. He takes pride in working with a talented team of managers who are fully committed to success.
“They challenge me to be better every day and are deeply invested in our shared goals,” Brent explains. One of the things he values most about SSC is the welcoming, family-like atmosphere. From the CEO to his peers, he has experienced unwavering support and a sense of belonging.
Hard work and perseverance were values instilled in Brent from an early age, thanks to his parents. His father, a retired principal, taught the importance of education, while his mother, a pastor, emphasized faith. Both of his parents earned doctoral degrees and modeled resilience and determination in everything they did. “My parents are my heroes,” Brent says. “They led by example, encouraging us to dream big, work hard, and never give up.”
One family tradition that shaped his perspective involved memorizing poems and Bible verses, which he and his siblings would recite on the way to school. At the time, it seemed like a chore, but over the years, those words became a source of strength during life’s challenges. Now, he continues the tradition with his own children, passing down the same lessons of perseverance and faith.
Throughout his career, Brent has worked to create opportunities for others. Early on, he realized that the cleaning industry wasn’t just about maintaining facilities—it was about building relationships and helping people grow. Over the years, he has hired and mentored 15 managers, 12 of whom are still thriving in the field, with four promoted to leadership roles.
“It’s not about me—it’s about the amazing talent of the people around me,” he reflects. “Watching them grow and succeed has been one of the most rewarding parts of my career.”
For Brent, success is about more than personal achievement. One of his favorite poems, The Bridge Builder by Will Allen Dromgoole, perfectly captures his philosophy:
“This chasm that has been as naught to me,
to that fair-haired youth may a pitfall be.
He, too, must cross in the twilight dim;
Good friend, I am building this bridge for him.”
Inspired by these words, Brent continues strives to make the path easier for those who follow, whether they are family members, colleagues, or mentees. “Where much is given, much is required,” he says. “I’ve been blessed with so many opportunities, and it’s my responsibility to give back and help others reach their full potential.”