Cieara Davis
"The hope for a better, more inclusive Idaho inspires me."
I stumbled into public service almost by accident.
When I interviewed with the Idaho Transportation Department, I was the youngest candidate, had no degree, and very little formal training experience. The hiring panel saw my skills and determination, and I was hired as the District Trainer.
I continue finding motivation through serving others. In my current role at the Association of Idaho Cities, I help public servants across the state build capacity to better serve their communities. Seeing our programs' impact on communities, leaders, and constituents has been the greatest motivator. Now I can't imagine doing anything else - I work tirelessly engaging the next generation of Idaho leaders.
One my career highlights has been working to create the nation's first apprenticeship program for city clerks, managers, and treasurers. As a STAR - a worker skilled through alternative routes - I’m proud to contribute to a program that opens opportunities for others like me who don’t have a degree but are eager to learn on the job.
The hope for a better, more inclusive Idaho inspires me to help others see their potential. I strongly believe in people's power and engaging the next generation. I envision more diversity in public service and hope to inspire future leaders to hone skills, believe in themselves, and be the change.
As a STAR, I've proven you can still be successful and impactful in public service without a degree. I've had the honor of sharing my story, hopefully inspiring others to take pride in the unique skills life experience provides.
The political climate here can be difficult as a young LGBTQ+ woman. At times, I'm tempted to leave. But as a native Idahoan, I feel responsible to stay and 'fight the good fight.' If diverse voices like mine leave, how will change happen?
I'm constantly inspired by the dedicated public servants around me, waking up daily to face adversity while doing their best with limited resources to improve our state.
While the journey hasn't been easy, I ended up exactly where I was meant to be. I'd tell my younger self: “Trust that you are wildly capable and deserving, despite not having that degree. Your experiences make you meaningful.”
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