Hometown: Raised in Lewisville, Texas, currently living in Austin
Role: Analyst and Fiscal Coordinator, Legislative Budget Board, Texas Legislature
Years of legislative service: Two-plus years
NCSL connection: Martinez is a 2021 graduate of NCSL’s Legislative Staff Certificate Program.
“‘Never stop learning.’ With every step in life, there is always room for growth. I do my absolute best to take advantage of learning opportunities.”
Why did you choose to work at the legislature?
I’ve always had an interest in government for the knowledge you acquire through its policy processes and the meaningful impact you have on your community. Working for the Legislature throughout the two-year budget cycle is an honorable and rewarding way to support our state. The Legislative Budget Board helps to improve the efficiency and performance of state and local operations. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn and serve the fiscal policy and analysis needs of the Texas Legislature.
What skill or talent are you most proud of?
I’ve become more skillful at inquiry in various ways. The amount of research, analysis and review our office conducts ensures we can provide the best information from our inquiry. The ability to inquire allows me to interpret, share and reflect on findings that best serve our state, and is an invaluable skill I will carry throughout my career.
Who or what inspires you?
It’s difficult to pinpoint just one thing or one person who inspires me. I really do find inspiration in a lot of the people in my life. My mentors have guided me throughout my adolescence and adulthood during my education and into my career field. My friends and family also inspire me to be more healthy, creative and authentic.
What’s one thing you love about your state?
I love how much state pride we have. You can’t go very far in Texas without seeing our Lone Star flag proudly displayed somewhere or a field of bluebonnets (our state flower), or experiencing common courtesy from a friendly Texan.
What are you currently reading/listening to/watching?
I just finished listening to an audiobook called “Becoming Bulletproof,” by Evy Poumpouras. It’s insightful and fascinating to learn what people in other public service roles encounter every day. It gives me a deeper understanding and appreciation for what people do.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.