How do Roads Scholars get their start, and what inspires them to go the extra mile? MnLTAP is pleased to share the journeys of our recent graduates. In this issue we hear from Ted Brokaw, director of public works for the City of International Falls and a 2023 Roads Scholar who completed both the Maintenance and Leadership certificates.
How did you get interested in your field?
I was in building maintenance for the city for 15 years and wanted more of a challenge. My supervisor was retiring, and I was interested in applying for a Street and Water Commissioner position. However, in the natural progression to supervisory roles within the city, the preferred candidate was usually the most experienced heavy equipment operator—but heavy equipment operator experience was not my forte. I knew the employees we had were some of the best at what they did, so I didn’t need to tell them how to run the stuff but rather when to run it. At first I felt like a fish out of water, but I realized early on that I could use my maintenance background to implement a maintenance program for each area of public works just as I had in my previous position—just on a much larger scale.
How does the Roads Scholar certificate help you in your current job and career plans?
When I became a supervisor in 2016, I was looking for any opportunity to learn more about road maintenance, so the LTAP newsletter was something very early on that showed me the opportunities for training and education. Some of the things I learned through LTAP allowed me to implement up-to-date processes and methods that improved services and saved time and money. I believe the knowledge and experience I gained with this program helped me get promoted to public works director in 2020 after our previous public works director retired after 48 years.
What can people learn from your path?
Never do something for one that you can’t do for everyone, never tell anyone what you think they want to hear, and always do what is best instead of what is easiest. Always be willing to learn. Be proactive and not reactive.
What is a favorite accomplishment on the job?
My staff getting complimented for something new they are doing or did that has improved the service we are providing. My hope is that I had a hand in getting them the right equipment or helped implement the change that gets them the accolades. They deserve the credit and the pat on the back.
What makes you feel proud at the end of the day?
Knowing I made a difference.
How has your job changed over the years?
Going from a one-person show taking care of three buildings working alone to being responsible for every aspect of public works and managing 21 employees.
Any funny or surprising incidents while talking to citizens?
Measuring up some concrete that was removed for a water break, I had a homeowner introduce herself telling me she hates me because we have dug the street up so many times. I told her I was ok with that and I know that it is my responsibility to remedy it.
How do you keep a work/life balance?
I have a very understanding wife and daughter who know that the city sometimes probably takes precedence more than it should over them, which is something I need to work harder on. We have a cabin on Rainy Lake and spend as much time there as we can. Solitude is therapeutic.