Democracy is at risk as trust in our government continues to decline. This book shows how to strategically and systemically advance a high-performance public service culture built on instilling meaning, purpose, and pride. The simple, yet incredibly powerful concept of bolstering organizational culture with inspired public service can be foundational to restoring trust in government, a pillar to reinforcing democracy.
Leaders sincerely focused on the power of public service can improve government performance and build grass-roots solutions to achieve bipartisan outcomes. Built on real-world experience, Wright provides instructive and entertaining guidance for public sector leaders—and potential leaders—about how to overcome negative societal perceptions, lead with time-honored values and informed decisions, and more broadly, rebuild confidence in government.
Available for order at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop.org, and more.
“ Throughout his career, Steve Wright was an exceptional and highly effective public servant. He was effective because he continuously reflected on and learned from his experience. Inspired Public Service clearly, succinctly, and actionably shares those learnings. Core to what Steve learned and now shares is stewardship – of public goods, resources, the agencies where he worked and which he led, and of public trust. Stewardship is also core to those industries that build and operate critical infrastructure and provide essential services, and which often depend on working with professional and dedicated public servants to achieve their purposes. Whether working in the public, private or non-profit sectors, we can all benefit from and be inspired by Steve’s lessons in Inspired Public Service.”
—Bob Rowe, retired CEO, NorthWestern Energy, former Montana Public Service Commissioner, currently serving on multiple non-profit boards (and still passionate about stewardship)
“I worked very closely with Steve Wright during my six years at the US Department of Energy. Not only did Steve have my absolute trust and respect, I saw firsthand that he also had the trust and respect of cabinet officials, US senators, members of Congress, and both political and career officials throughout the federal government. That respect was earned. Rarely have I ever worked with anyone who was as effective as Steve in managing a large government organization, while also effectively working with members of both political parties. Steve’s lessons on how to do on this are useful to anyone interested in how government can and should function.”
—David Hill, former US Department of Energy General Counsel
“Throughout his years with the Bonneville Power Administration, Steve Wright was the embodiment of a “public servant.” He was always willing to work with anyone—utilities, members of the public, elected officials of both parties, federal, state, and local community leaders—in the pursuit of goals that would serve the public interest. His lessons on how to do that are important for anyone interested in the effective functioning of American government.”
—Scott Corwin, CEO of the American Public Power Association
“Building off an extraordinary career where he worked effectively with stakeholders and elected officials, Steve shares gifts of knowledge that can help anyone be a stronger public service leader.”
—Peter DeFazio, former chair of the US House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee
“Steve Wright is a proven leader who understands trust is where the magic happens. It’s foundational to building the strong relationships necessary to find success and deliver results in today's world. His thoughtful approach to leadership is sure to inspire and motivate readers across the political spectrum.”
—Cathy McMorris Rodgers, US Representative, chair of House Energy and Commerce Committee
“To those who believe each of us has the opportunity to create positive and meaningful change in the world through public service, Steve Wright has provided you the tools to help make it happen. I have worked with Steve, and I know he lives what he writes.”
—Former Washington State governor, Christine Gregoire
“Steve Wright's career demonstrates that public service is indeed a noble calling. Inspired Public Service charts the path for the next generation to effectively lead the government and ensure the public interest is always top of mind.”
—Rich Glick, former chairman, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission