Ground Floor Government

Navigating Local Government Careers (with Jordan Cook) | Ep. 135

Ground Floor Government

Show Notes

Summary In this episode, Jordan Cook, City Administrator of Nevada, Iowa, shares his journey into local government, discussing the adaptability of career paths in this field. He highlights the challenges and successes faced in governance, including a notable community project that positively impacted local quality of life. Jordan emphasizes the importance of communication skills and teamwork in navigating the complexities of local administration. He concludes with valuable advice for those considering a career in local government.

Ready to explore your own local government career options? Download this free guide on how to transition into a successful career in local government: https://icma.org/documents/breaking-local-government-guidebook-career-transitions

Takeaways Career paths in local government can be diverse and adaptable. A passion for public administration can stem from unexpected experiences. Every day in local government presents new challenges. Community projects can have a lasting positive impact. Effective communication is crucial in local governance. Teamwork and collaboration are essential for success. Understanding community needs is key to effective governance. Patience is necessary in the slow-moving world of government. It's important to focus on the community as a whole, not just individuals. Connecting with others in the field can provide valuable insights.

Sponsored by Switchboard.Live

More from Ground Floor Government

Oct 26, 2026

Summary In this episode, Hugh Plappert interviews Shara Dee, the first communications officer for South Portland, Maine. They discuss the unexpected opportunities in local government communications, Shara's journey from nonprofit to municipal work, and the challenges of building a communications office from scratch. The conversation covers the balance between proactive and reactive communication strategies, the importance of engaging the community through creative content, and the unique challenges of communicating with diverse audiences. Shara shares her passion for community engagement and offers advice for those considering a career in local government.

Oct 23, 2026

Summary In this conversation, Marcus Townsend shares his journey into web development, emphasizing the importance of community service and networking within local government. He discusses the challenges of implementing accessibility in web projects and the satisfaction he derives from serving his community. Townsend also highlights the role of associations like NAGWA in fostering professional growth and collaboration among government web professionals.

Oct 21, 2026

Summary In this episode, Monique Carter shares her journey in local government, highlighting the importance of finding the right position and contributing to the community. She discusses her role in marketing and economic development, the challenges of navigating unexpected situations, and the creative strategies employed to engage citizens. Monique emphasizes the value of communication skills, the balance between creativity and compliance, and the opportunities available within local government careers.

Oct 19, 2026

Summary In this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert speaks with Hope Boyd, Chief Communications and Marketing Officer in Cleburne, Texas. They discuss Hope's journey from news to local government, the challenges and rewards of crisis communications, and the importance of clear messaging in public relations. Hope shares insights on balancing budget constraints with creative communication strategies, the various roles within city operations, and the significance of marketing city services to the community. They also compare the benefits of working in local government versus news, and encourage listeners to consider careers in public service.

Oct 16, 2026

Summary In this conversation, Jake Zeigler, Communication Manager for Effingham County, Georgia, shares his journey from the private sector to local government. He discusses the unique challenges and responsibilities of communication in government, the importance of community engagement, and the need for effective communication strategies. Jake emphasizes the significance of understanding public interest and adapting communication methods to meet the needs of citizens. He also provides valuable advice for those considering a career in local government, highlighting the diverse opportunities available and the importance of reaching out to local agencies.

See all episodes →