- Hometown: Layton, Utah
- Role: As Utah’s auditor general, Minchey directs the Office of the Legislative Auditor General.
- Years of legislative service: 22
“I love learning from past leaders and applying lessons learned. Abraham Lincoln is one of my heroes; I am inspired by his leadership style. He showed a great ability to be both confident and humble.”
Minchey
Why did you choose to work at the Legislature?
Working for the Legislature provides rewarding and meaningful work covering a breadth and depth of work topics that is very satisfying and exciting. Daniel Pink, author of the book “Drive,” summed up my enjoyment for the Legislature best when he said, “Human beings have an innate inner drive to be autonomous, self-determined and connected to one another. And when that drive is liberated, people achieve more and live richer lives.” Working for the Legislature has provided deep connections with people, information and systems and has led to a rich and rewarding career.
What skill or talent are you most proud of?
Utah Speaker Brad Wilson refers to a skill called “Relentless Forward Progress.” It means to utilize a growth mindset to continually innovate and move an organization forward. I am certainly not perfect at this, but it is a skill I strive for.
What’s the best advice you were ever given?
“If you want to make everyone happy, don’t be a leader, sell ice cream,” as Steve Jobs said.
Who or what inspires you?
History. I love learning from past leaders and applying lessons learned. Abraham Lincoln is one of my heroes; I am inspired by his leadership style. He showed a great ability to be both confident and humble. He demonstrated strong leadership while listening to others who didn’t always agree with him.
What’s one thing you love about your state?
It’s too hard to pick just one, but I was able to get it down to two: industry and innovation. Utahans work hard and come up with creative solutions.
What are you currently reading/listening to/watching?
“Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance,” by Angela Duckworth.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Use the email icon above to suggest a legislative staffer for the “Staff Snapshots” series.