From JPMorgan Chase VP to Code Ninjas Franchisee: Why Kenneth Johnson Bet on STEM Education in McKinney, Texas

Kenneth Johnson is a technology executive, military veteran, and entrepreneur with more than 20 years of leadership experience across cybersecurity, engineering, and enterprise technology. After serving 12 years in the military, he held leadership roles with several Fortune 100 companies, including Microsoft and JPMorgan Chase, where he most recently served as Vice President of Engineering for Data Loss Prevention.

Johnson is now bringing his passion for technology and education to Code Ninjas, where he and business partner Calvin Thomas are expanding access to hands-on STEM learning and helping equip local students with future-ready skills through coding, robotics, and artificial intelligence programs.

Franchise Chatter (FC): After leadership roles at companies like JPMorgan Chase and Microsoft, what ultimately motivated you to make the leap into franchise ownership with Code Ninjas?

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Kenneth Johnson (KJ): After spending most of my career in technology and cybersecurity, I started thinking more seriously about what I wanted the next chapter to look like. I wanted to build something of my own, but I also wanted it to have purpose behind it. When I came across Code Ninjas, it immediately stood out because it sits at the intersection of education, technology, and entrepreneurship. It’s a business built around skills that are only becoming more important, and it gave us the opportunity to invest in something that can create a real impact for kids and families while also being part of a fast-growing brand with strong long-term potential.

FC: As a first-time franchisee, what gave you confidence that Code Ninjas was the right investment opportunity and business model for you?

KJ: We spent a lot of time evaluating opportunities, and what kept bringing us back to Code Ninjas was the strength of the business model and the relevance of the category. Demand for STEM and technology education is only accelerating, and Code Ninjas has already established itself as a leader in that space. We also liked the membership-based structure because it creates recurring engagement and predictable revenue, which is important from an ownership perspective. Beyond that, the brand has strong infrastructure, great franchisee support, and a mission that genuinely resonates with families. It felt like a business built for long-term growth.

FC: You evaluated this opportunity at a time when demand for AI, coding, and STEM education is accelerating nationwide. How much did those long-term consumer and workforce trends influence your decision?

KJ: They influenced it tremendously. Technology is evolving faster than ever, and AI is changing the way every industry operates. The next generation is going to need digital literacy, coding, problem-solving, and adaptability regardless of the career path they choose. Families recognize that, which is why demand for programs like Code Ninjas continues growing. From our perspective, it created a really compelling opportunity to be part of a business that’s aligned with where education and workforce development are headed long term.

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FC: McKinney continues attracting young families and rapid population growth. What made the Dallas area especially appealing for launching your first Code Ninjas location?

KJ: McKinney is an incredible market because of the growth happening there and the number of families actively investing in educational and enrichment opportunities for their kids. The Dallas area has a strong technology presence, a highly engaged community, and a lot of momentum overall. We felt Code Ninjas was a perfect fit because it offers something families are increasingly looking for – a fun, engaging environment where kids can build real-world skills that prepare them for the future.

FC: Code Ninjas operates on a membership-based model with recurring engagement from families. From an ownership perspective, what appealed to you most about that structure?

KJ: The membership model was definitely one of the things that stood out to us from a business perspective. It creates recurring revenue and long-term customer relationships instead of relying on one-time visits. But what I really liked is that it allows you to see kids consistently grow and progress over time. Families become deeply connected to the center, which creates a strong sense of community and retention. From an ownership standpoint, it’s a model that offers both stability and scalability, which made it very attractive to us.

FC: You’ve spent years leading large-scale technology and cybersecurity initiatives. How did your corporate and military leadership background shape the way you approached evaluating franchise ownership and long-term scalability?

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KJ: My background taught me to think strategically and evaluate opportunities through a long-term lens. I looked closely at the operational systems, franchise support, scalability, leadership, and overall market opportunity. What impressed me about Code Ninjas is that it already has the infrastructure and systems of a mature franchise brand while still being in a category with tremendous runway for growth. It felt like an opportunity where we could build something meaningful locally while also benefiting from the momentum of a rapidly expanding national brand.

FC: Many professionals are exploring franchising as a path to entrepreneurship, particularly after long corporate careers. Why do you think franchise ownership is resonating with executives and operators right now?

KJ: I think many professionals want the opportunity to build something for themselves while leveraging the experience they’ve gained throughout their careers. Franchising offers a really unique balance because you get the independence of business ownership combined with proven systems, operational support, and brand recognition. In the case of Code Ninjas, you’re also entering a category with strong consumer demand and long-term relevance, which makes it especially compelling for executives looking for scalable opportunities with real growth potential.

FC: Beyond teaching kids how to code, what do you think families are really looking for today when they invest in STEM and technology-focused enrichment programs?

KJ: Families are looking for programs that prepare their kids for the future while also helping them build confidence, creativity, and critical thinking skills. Coding is obviously important, but what parents really value is seeing their kids become more comfortable solving problems, collaborating, and thinking independently. Code Ninjas does a great job of making those skills fun and approachable for kids, which is a big part of why the brand continues resonating so strongly with families.

FC: As a new franchise owner, what kind of support, infrastructure, or operational systems from Code Ninjas helped reinforce your decision to join the brand?

KJ: The support structure was a huge factor for us. The Code Ninjas team has been incredibly collaborative throughout the process, from site development and training to operations and curriculum support. Coming from enterprise environments, I know how important systems and consistency are when scaling a business, and Code Ninjas has built a very strong franchise infrastructure. It gave us confidence not only in opening our first location, but also in the long-term growth potential of the business.

FC: Looking ahead, what excites you most about building this business in McKinney and becoming part of Code Ninjas’ broader growth strategy across Texas and the U.S.?

KJ: What excites me most is the opportunity to build something that creates a lasting impact within the community while also being part of a brand that’s growing rapidly nationwide. We’re excited to create a place where kids can feel inspired and empowered while learning skills that will benefit them for years to come. At the same time, it’s exciting to join a franchise brand with strong momentum, increasing demand, and a clear long-term vision for growth across Texas and beyond.