Nicole Aranas
Deputy Village Manager, Village of Lombard
Tell us about your journey into the profession:
I have always been interested in a career in public service and have been drawn to find purpose in work that directly helps people and impacts communities. My journey began with an undergraduate degree in Urban Planning. After college, I pursued a dual degree MAUP/JD program and graduated looking to find meaningful application of my educational background. Upon graduation, I worked as an attorney at a firm doing corporate municipal work and litigation defense for local government clients, which gave me insights into the legal and operational challenges facing municipalities. Seeking to utilize my planning background and work directly for a unit of local government, I took an opportunity to serve as Community Development Director for a former municipal client. Eventually, I found my way to public administration, taking my current position with the Village of Lombard. Despite my non-traditional path to city management, the combination and variety of my experiences proved to be a solid foundation as I transitioned into my current position. Though my journey has not exactly been linear, each step has been a valuable learning experience that has only strengthened my commitment to the profession.
Why is local government a good career path?
A career in public service, particularly at the local level, has been a truly rewarding career path. I personally appreciate how my career has offered me the opportunity to engage in meaningful and challenging work on a wide range of topics and issues which directly impact people’s lives. The breadth, scope, and variety of the issues, questions, and challenges faced in local government make my job continually interesting and fulfilling. No two days are ever the same and there is always something new to consider, learn, and grow from, keeping the work fresh and engaging. Finally, it is a personal privilege to have the opportunity to support the services provided by our organization in ways that directly create positive impact in the every day lives of people in our community.
Fun fact about yourself:
Recently confronted intense fear of heights to zipline and cliff dive with my family, something I never thought I would do.
If you could give one piece of advice to future local government leaders, what would it be?
My advice to future local government leaders would be to find meaning and stay grounded in the purpose and impact of your work. I initially pursued a career in public service because I viewed it as a noble calling and subsequently became quite disheartened by the ever-growing public distrust in government. Over time, I have grown to take solace in focusing on the meaning and importance of the work itself. Despite its challenges, I would advise future local government leaders to find a sense of purpose in their work and the privilege of service to others to serve as the foundation to carry them through their careers.
Shows/music/books you’re currently watching/listening to/reading:
Currently watching Severance, St. Denis Medical, and national news.
Last read was “Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World” by David Epstein.
Love a variety of music, but my most played artist is Adele.
Hobbies:
Cheering on my kids at youth athletics, traveling, exploring new places and cuisine, playing mahjong, and shopping.
