HERE IN Tullahoma, hometown charm and strong community bonds aren’t hard to find. Community leaders, advocates, lawmakers, construction workers, farmers, educators, and medical professionals all come together to build this place we call home. Their unity and hard work define our community. Many influential community members prefer to work behind the scenes, seeking positive change rather than recognition. One such person is Joses Jernigan, an engineer who dedicates his life to innovation and inspiring the next generation of leaders.
Jernigan has always had a heart for Tullahoma. He was raised here from the age of 3, and his ties to the community are both personal and historical.
“My father was born and raised here, and I’ve lived here since I was a child,” Jernigan shared.
After spending five years away for college, he returned to Tullahoma for work and now lives in Estill Springs. With his compassionate spirit and humble demeanor, he continues to serve Middle Tennessee behind the scenes however he can.
Jernigan was recognized as one of Tullahoma’s “40 Under 40” and honored as Kiwanian of the Year. Despite his accolades, he views his accomplishments as further motivation to set a positive example for young children. He believes leadership is more about daily actions than titles and accolades.
“I want to help the kids of our next generation and be an example to others, especially my son,” he explained. “It’s not always easy, but seeing the positive results makes it all worthwhile.”
Among the many community events he has helped organize with Kiwanis this year, the 41A Music Festival is the most renowned.
“This is a great time to share time with family and listen to music for free. Also, it helps the community by giving back all profits to the community and to the kids in this area,” he said.
While the festival’s music is undoubtedly the main attraction, its philanthropic efforts truly set it apart. The event funnels all profits back into the community, benefiting local children and creating a cycle of giving that reflects Jernigan’s core values.
“Kiwanis is dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time,” he said. “This aligns with my own values, focusing on both the community and the children.”
Traits like loyalty and leading by example are just a few of which Jernigan believes are essential.
“Loyalty, leading by example, and going the extra mile are crucial,” he asserted. “It’s about staying humble, being disciplined, being selfless, and believing in what you stand for.”
These principles guide his actions in every facet of his life, from his role as a family man and church member to his diverse community endeavors.
“Leading by example in my family helps my son grow into a better person,” he shared. “At church, I teach Sunday school and work on maintaining the church, which aligns with my commitment to service and relationship-building.”
For Jernigan, every opportunity is a chance to lead with integrity and uplift others. His drive to serve stems from a desire to improve himself and help those around him grow.
“When you see an opportunity and have the skills or time, you step up to do what is right,” he said. “Which makes me believe we all need to look at how we want our community.”
Jernigan is determined to transform Tullahoma by encouraging collective contributions to the common good. He pictures a Tullahoma that combines its unique small-town charm with growth and innovation in the near future.
“Tullahoma is very unique in a way — it has a small town but also some larger commerce,” he observed. “Tie that in with the industry here, and you realize that you truly have something special. We have to skill up the next generation to keep the area prosperous. I would like to see a maker space where all ages could go and build whatever their hearts desire. This could entail wood shop, mechanical, machining, welding, and paint for starters.”
He believes that introducing basic trades to younger generations early could unleash their creative potential at an earlier age and contribute to even greater prosperity and progress within the community.
“This space could provide an opening for the older knowledgeable minds to share with the younger eager-to-learn minds.”
Jernigan firmly believes in setting a positive example for them to follow.
“Opening up and caring for one another, giving back to the community, following God more closely, and helping kids is the goal.”
Heath Waters, a Tullahoma native and former boss, has significantly influenced Jernigan’s life. Jernigan noted he never fully grasped the impact of setting a good example until he saw it firsthand with Waters. He always balanced business ownership and volunteerism with a positive, humble attitude.
Jernigan’s overall mission is to lead by example, serve with heart, and make a meaningful difference. He values both tradition and progress and seeks impact above anything else.
“I don’t have grand stories of heroism,” he said modestly. “I’m just trying to lead in the light of the Lord and do my best in all I do.” GN
