Kim Jones: Raising Buildings and Breaking Barriers

Kim Jones, director of facilities planning and management at Butte College, is proof that the path to success isn’t always a straight line. Through persistence, adaptability, and determination, she built her own path and a career defined by impact.

Jones didn’t begin her career with a background in construction. In 1987, after earning a Certificate of Completion in Office Administration from Heald Business College, she enrolled as a student at Butte College. While at Butte College, she was encouraged by faculty to apply for a facilities role on campus, and the rest was history.

In 1994, she graduated with honors from Butte College with an Associate in Science in Business Computer Information Systems, Office Assistant, and has since undergone countless training and certificate programs to strengthen her knowledge of the field.

Today, she oversees millions of dollars in projects and plays a key role in shaping the college’s physical landscape. Her work behind the scenes includes managing large-scale construction efforts, renovations, and long-term planning that directly impact student success.

“The students are what motivate me,” she said. “I feel a responsibility to create the best place possible for them to learn and for staff to teach.”

In 2016, Butte and Glenn County voters passed Measure J, providing Butte College with funding to build new spaces, including a science building on the main campus. Jones had already been managing funds from Measure A, and together the two bond measures totaled $282 million.

“$282 million worth of construction is a lot for anyone to have on their résumé, especially a woman,” Jones said.
In an industry where women have historically been underrepresented, Jones has spent more than 35 years proving what’s possible. Throughout her time at Butte College, she and her team have built 15 new buildings, completed more than 50 renovations, and finished three solar projects.

On any given day, Jones balances the demands of aging infrastructure with the uncertainties of new construction. Through it all, Jones keeps her team organized, focused, and moving forward.

Positivity and encouragement are a defining part of her leadership style. She believes in trusting her team, valuing expertise at every level, and creating an environment where people feel respected and empowered.

“I think if you treat your people with respect and you give them the power to do what they do best, then you as a leader are going to be a shining star,” she said. “You have to support your people, and you have to understand where they're coming from and allow them to be the experts within their own area.”

For women navigating their own careers, especially in male-dominated industries, Jones’ advice is to always be open to learning and don’t accept the limitations other people set.

“Never take ‘no’ for an answer and challenge yourself even when you feel like you can't do it,” she said. “I have to remind myself that I belong here. I can't give up. I have to stay true to who I am and help people no matter what role I'm in.”

Her career is proof that success doesn’t always start with a clear roadmap. Sometimes, it begins with a single opportunity, a strong support system, and the determination to keep going.