![IAMMA Spotlight]()
Nick Partipilo
Administrative Analyst
City of Geneva
Tell us about your journey into the profession:
I have had a fairly traditional path into local government; I studied Political Science at NIU and then slightly broke the mold by pursuing an MPA at the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M. During my time at NIU and Texas A&M I was fortunate enough to intern for the then Illinois House of Representatives Minority Leader Jim Durkin and the Village of Lombard, my hometown. Graduating with a specialized masters degree in May of 2020 wasn’t the most advantageous of timing. I worked odd jobs and ended up as a substitute teacher which was a lot of fun and a rewarding experience. In June of 2021, I began work as a Public Works Analyst for the Village of Western Springs. After two successful years of learning everything under the sun about Public Works, I made the transition to the City of Geneva where I currently work in the Administrative Services Department.
Why is local government a good career path?
The number of different paths one can take from within the local government field is amazing. No matter what your interest is you can find a career in local government that lets you not only pursue that interest but also better a community at the same time.
Fun fact about yourself:
I am a lifelong band nerd and have been playing trumpet for over 20 years. At NIU I was in the Huskie Marching Band, Pep Band, Wind Symphony, and the band fraternity Kappa Kappa Psi. I still look forward to NIU Homecoming games where I get to go and play trumpet with the current band and other alumni.
If you could give one piece of advice to future local government leaders, what would it be?
Don’t be afraid to take risks with work, especially early in your career. My first job was as a Public Works Analyst and before I was hired, I didn’t know that there were storm sewers, sanitary sewers, and combined sewers. Now, I rely on my Public Works knowledge and the things I learned in that role just as much as what I learned in school.
Shows/music/books you’re currently watching/listening to/reading:
- Invincible, Gilmore Girls (yes really), and MCU Tv shows
- My music library is a constant mix of Linkin Park, Logic, and Jazz classics.
- Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill and Rosa Lee Beeland
Hobbies:
Playing board and card games, working out, reading, and watching football (Go Bears, Huskies, and Aggies!)
