Albert Tripp was first appointed to city manager of Airway Heights in 2008 and has led the small city through a period of unprecedented growth over the past 15-plus years. He says he chooses to work in local government because he wants to serve others. Through the years, his service to the community has taken several forms, including public safety, planning, and administration.  

Tripp currently serves on the Washington state Housing Finance Commission and previously served on the Spokane Regional Homeless Governance Council and the board of Washington City/County Management Association.

He says his focus has always been to serve others. 

Education: Master’s degree in public administration and urban and regional planning, Eastern Washington University. 

What was your first job and what did you learn from it? My very first job was working in our family garden. I learned we are all dependent upon each other.

What's the best piece of advice you've received? Don't take yourself too seriously. No one else does.

 What advice would you have for others looking to follow a career path similar to yours? Public service is a very rewarding career. Every day, you have opportunities to positively impact the lives of others. Anyone can pursue a career in public service. Just look around, there are so many ways people can positively affect their communities by getting involved. A good place to start is volunteering, getting your foot in the door.

Do you have a favorite quote/motto? Swing for the fences and don't be afraid to take risks.

If you had one wish for Spokane, what would it be? Let's celebrate who we are. Spokane is an amazing community. The grass is greener where you water it.