About Us

The Adinkra symbol of

NKYINKYIM

The Adinkra symbol from Ghana, West Africa, represents the twists and turns of life’s journey. It embodies adaptability, resilience, ingenuity, resourcefulness, perseverance, and flexibility. This powerful emblem reminds us that life is full of change, and true strength lies in our ability to adjust, endure, and thrive through every challenge.

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Vision

The African American Trade Association strives to be an enduring resource that inspires and challenges each of us to live our greater purpose—advancing economic mobility, wellness, and belonging for ourselves, our families, and our communities.

Mission

To bridge the health and wealth gaps by connecting people, businesses, and communities to the tools, training, and relationships that foster generational wealth and well-being.

AATA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization located in Denver, Colorado.

Core Values

Servant Leadership

We lead with experience, empathy, and excellence—empowering others through trust and a deep commitment to serve our communities with purpose and integrity.

Long-Term Horizon

We act as stewards of lasting impact—investing in people, partnerships, and systems that sustain communities for generations. We measure success not by short-term gains, but by the enduring outcomes of stability, equity, and opportunity we help create.

Remarkable Experiences

Every interaction with AATA—from a student’s first apprenticeship to a family’s financial milestone—is an opportunity to transform lives. We anticipate needs, remove barriers, and act with urgency and care.

Meaningful and Lasting Relationships

We build trust through transparency, shared goals, and genuine collaboration. For AATA, relationships are not transactional—they are the foundation of sustainable growth and social progress.

Greater Purpose

At AATA, we create space for every person to live with purpose—guided by faith, family, and service to the community. We believe true success is found in serving others and building lives of meaning and impact that extend beyond ourselves. Together, we empower one another to build stronger families, vibrant communities, and lasting impact.

Corporate Stewardship

We honor the trust placed in us by managing every resource—financial, human, and environmental—with integrity and accountability. Our commitment to transparency and excellence ensures that every decision strengthens AATA’s mission and multiplies our impact for the communities we serve.

Like the African-American community, AATA honors its ancestors and the activists and advocates who paved the way. We believe in intergenerational collaboration and utilizing the tools and strength of those who came before us. Our foundation holds us up as we continue the fight for racial justice, economic empowerment, and African-American advancement.

Our Founding Team

Robert “Bob” Jackson

Robert “Bob” Jackson was founder and CEO of Jackson Enterprises, Corp for over 30 years. He has a well-earned reputation in the Denver Metro Area for being a longtime community leader, mentor to a multitude of entrepreneurs, and champion for equal opportunity. Over 40 years ago, Bob became involved with assisting the Minority and Women Owned Business communities in obtaining and maintaining contract opportunities. He organized multiple trade organizations and worked with national, state, and city government agencies to establish many of the M/WBE programs we have today.

CEO, Jackson Enterprises

Herman Malone

Herman Malone has pioneered his innovative skillsets. He was a founding member of the Colorado Black Chamber of Commerce, the National Black Chamber of Commerce, the National Supplier Development Council, and the Business Advisory Coalition (BAC). He has served with distinction on many national, state, and city boards and commissions. He is a founding member of the AATA, of which he says holds the greatest promise. He founded his company, RMES Communications, a telecommunications and advertising firm serving airports and transit markets, 45 years ago.

President, RMES Communications, Inc.

A nationally known and respected Harvard-trained attorney, Walter is a leader in African American business development. He has received numerous awards, including the National Small Business Lawyer Advocate of the Year at the White House, co-chaired the Governor’s Minority Business Advisory Committee, and served on the Colorado Board of Law Examiners. An expert in disparity programs for over 30 years, Walter actively consults small businesses, corporations, and government agencies.

Attorney, Progressive Urban Business Development, LLC

Walter Jones

Leadership Team

Terri Jackson

Executive Director
Terri Jackson is the founder and Executive Director of AATA, bringing more than 30 years of small business leadership and a Michigan MBA to her work building one of Colorado’s most innovative workforce development organizations. A Commissioner of the Denver Urban Renewal Authority, Terri combines deep expertise in marketing, finance, and human resources with an unwavering commitment to economic equity. She leads AATA with a singular vision: to be an enduring resource that helps every person find and live their professional and personal purpose.
Darlene Adams

Business Manager
Darlene Adams is AATA’s Business Manager, bringing an MBA in Healthcare Administration and extensive leadership experience across community health, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing settings. At AATA, Darlene ensures every program runs seamlessly — from initial enrollment through graduation — and is known for celebrating each student’s milestone alongside their families. Her operational expertise and compassionate leadership help AATA deliver a high-quality experience at every step of the participant journey.
Drew Jackson

Field Director
Drew Jackson serves as Field Director at AATA, bringing 20 years of small business and field construction experience — including a foundation built working in the family business since the age of 14. Drew is the heart and soul of day-to-day operations ensuring AATA has relationships with industry, education partners, and students working tirelessly to ensure every participant has the support, guidance, and opportunity they need to complete their program and step into a promising career.
Chelsea Gaines

Industry Partnerships & Student Success
Chelsea Gaines bridges the gap between AATA’s graduates and the employers who need them. A nonprofit leader with a communications degree from Eckerd College, Chelsea manages industry partnerships and student success — working on both sides to ensure placements are the right fit for students and employers alike. Her community outreach experience and program management skills make her a vital connector in AATA’s workforce pipeline.
Zakiyyah Doss

Accounting Manager
Zakiyyah Doss is a Langston University HBCU graduate with more than 20 years of accounting and project controls experience. At AATA, she oversees the financial systems that keep the organization operating with integrity and confidence — ensuring every employee, vendor, and participant can trust in the soundness of AATA’s financial foundation. Her precision and dedication reflect AATA’s commitment to accountability at every level.
Robert Anchrum

Chief Instructor
Robert Anchrum brings 38 years of building maintenance and facilities management experience to his role as Chief Instructor at AATA, including a distinguished career as regional manager of USPS facilities across Colorado. A longtime coach and mentor to young men, Robert creates a safe and nurturing classroom environment where students can let their guard down, build real confidence, and master the trades. His approach is as much about developing character as it is about developing skills.
Brian Jackson

Assistant Instructor
Brian Jackson is a graduate of AATA’s own heat pump program, and his firsthand experience as a student makes him uniquely effective as an Assistant Instructor. Drawing on previous experience in carpentry and small business, Brian focuses on getting students credential-ready — helping them understand exactly what it takes to pass their exams and succeed in the field. His journey through the program gives students a powerful example of what’s possible.
Joseph Johnson

Heat Pump Instructor
Joseph Johnson is one of the country’s foremost authorities on heat pump systems — an engaging, highly credentialed instructor who has authored curriculum used across the industry. At AATA, Joe is a teacher of teachers, ensuring every student leaves his class with real, job-ready skills and the confidence to walk into any workplace and know their craft. His EPA 608 certification course consistently produces some of AATA’s highest completion and pass rates.
Mike Retland

Electrical Instructor
Mike Retland is a Master Electrician with over 30 years of experience and a proud U.S. Air Force veteran. As AATA’s Electrical Instructor, Mike brings an energetic, exacting approach to the classroom — making sure every student not only knows the curriculum but develops the on-the-job skills needed to earn their journeyman’s license. His military discipline and deep industry expertise set a high standard that students rise to meet.
Ed Moolock

Instructor
Ed Moolock is a cornerstone of AATA’s construction classroom, known for his hands-on teaching style and his ability to build confidence in students at every skill level. At AATA, Ed ensures students not only learn the technical fundamentals of the trades but develop the safety habits and professional mindset that employers demand. His steady presence and practical expertise make him a trusted mentor to every cohort that comes through the program.
Pastor JC Hendrix

Organizational Consultant
Pastor JC Hendrix brings a lifetime of community leadership and servant-hearted wisdom to his role as Organizational Consultant at AATA. A recently retired Associate Pastor of Colorado Christian Fellowship, he is widely recognized for his leadership of the CCF Village Capital Campaign and his decades of mentoring men through the Sons of Covenant ministry. At AATA, Pastor JC ensures the organization is grounded in its core values of purpose, integrity, and servant leadership — so that everyone who encounters AATA’s staff feels that difference.
Cyrus Jones

Plumbing Instructor
Cyrus Jones is a Master Plumber with more than 30 years of experience serving the Denver community. At AATA, Cyrus leads the registered plumbing apprenticeship program, preparing students with the hands-on skills and technical knowledge required to earn their journeyman plumber’s license. His deep roots in the trade and commitment to workforce development make him an invaluable guide for the next generation of Colorado plumbers.
Terry Hartzell

HVAC Instructor
Terry Hartzell is the owner of Hartzell Heating and Air Conditioning and brings real-world entrepreneurial and technical expertise to AATA’s HVAC training program. At AATA, Terry is building a program capable of producing HVAC technicians who are comfortable and competent in any work environment — from residential systems to commercial installations. His combination of business ownership and hands-on trade experience gives students an unmatched perspective on the industry.
Jose Casillas

IT & Data Analyst
Jose Casillas supports AATA’s technology and data infrastructure as the organization’s IT and Data Analyst. Currently pursuing his degree in Information Technology at Michigan State University, Jose brings Salesforce expertise and a sharp analytical mindset to tracking program outcomes and maintaining the data systems that drive AATA’s reporting and accountability. His work ensures AATA’s impact is measured, documented, and clearly communicated to partners and funders.
Mike Knight

IT Manager
Mike Knight is a skilled and strategic Product Manager and technologist who ensures AATA’s operations are powered by the right tools and platforms. With a background in leading cross-functional teams from product conception through adoption, Mike identifies and implements technologies that increase AATA’s capacity to serve participants effectively. His analytical thinking and collaborative approach keep AATA at the leading edge of nonprofit technology infrastructure.

Our trusted advisors are respected community and business leaders whose experience, integrity, and leadership align deeply with AATA’s vision and mission. Like our staff, they are dedicated servant leaders who bring both professional expertise and a strong commitment to community impact. Together, they work intentionally to bridge economic and opportunity gaps, build sustainable futures, and strengthen the communities in which we all live, work, and do business.