How do Roads Scholars get their start, and what inspires them to go the extra mile? MnLTAP is pleased to share the journeys of recent graduates. This month, we meet Justin Wolff, streets public service worker, City of Woodbury. He earned the Leadership, Supervisory, and Operations Management certificate.
How did you get interested in public works?
Straight out of high school, I had no idea what to do. I decided to take the public works certificate program offered by Hennepin Technical College in Eden Prairie. From there, I began working as a seasonal employee for the City of Eden Prairie and I loved public works from then on.
Who are/were some influential people in your career path? People you admire? Who inspired you?
Dwight Clement, Gary Peters, and Kevin Snyder with the City of Eden Prairie were influential in my career path. These three guys are the public service workers I want to be like.
How does the Roads Scholar certificate help you in your current job & career plans?
It helps me in my current career path by teaching me new skills, opening my mind to new ideas, and meeting other public works professionals.
What’s a typical day like?
In my position, I can be doing something different every day of the week—and even must change what I’m doing several times a day. But the variety is what keeps it interesting.
What is your favorite accomplishment?
Getting a job with the City of Woodbury.
What can other people learn from your path?
You can get into public works with very little experience—especially if they get a chance to know you by being a seasonal employee.
What makes you feel proud at the end of the day?
Knowing that I did something to better the city or residents I work for.
How has your job changed over the years?
Technology, especially the computer and asset-management software part of the job, has increased greatly.
Any funny or surprising incidents while working at a site/on the road/talking to citizens?
A cicada started diving at me while I was using a heat lance to blow and dry cracks in the road. I freaked out because I didn’t know what it was or why it was obviously attacking me. I started trying to defend myself with the heat lance, thinking the heat would stop it. From other people’s point of view, I was dancing around waving the heat lance in the air randomly.
What do you do for hobbies/fun?
Hobby-grade remote-control cars, fish tanks, and vacationing. My favorite tv show is Landman.