1) How and when did your employment journey begin with the City of Portland?

I started working for the City in the summer of 1999. This July will mark 20 years. A coworker in a Landscape Company encouraged me to apply for the Parks Technician position that was being recruited for. I had irrigation experience and he knew that was a skill set that was needed. Once I made the list, I interviewed twice with Parks, but it was actually the Water Bureau Grounds Department that hired me.

 2) What is your current role?

I’m currently a Maintenance Supervisor I (formally known as a Parks Maintenance Supervisor). I have been in this position just over ten years.

3) Name one thing that you enjoy most or look forward to about your job?

The Water Bureau is great because you get to interact with so many different work groups. We are obviously in charge of grounds maintenance for all our sites, but we get to help other groups with projects that can take advantage of our skill set.

4) What is one advice or tip would you give to those seeking employment with the City?

The piece of advice is what my ex-father in law told me. He was a Parks Superintendent for the City of Santa Clara. Don’t forget the “Three P’s: Patience, Persistence and Preparedness.