GFOA Scholarship Spotlight: Erich Von Heuvel

Erich Von Heuvel is an Electric Utility Financial Analyst for Lubbock Power & Light, the municipally owned electric utility serving the City of Lubbock. Originally from the San Antonio area, he moved to Lubbock to attend Texas Tech University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in economics. After graduation, Erich chose to stay and has now lived in Lubbock for 7-8 years.

He is married and has one beautiful son, and he takes great pride in seeing how his work contributes to the well-being of the community. Outside of work, Erich is pursuing a Master of Public Administration online through Kansas State University, deepening his expertise in public finance and management. He is always eager to take on new projects and continuously learn, striving to be the best in his field. Erich enjoys spending time with his family and embracing their lovely life in Lubbock. He is thankful for the opportunities he has had and looks forward to continuing to grow both personally and professionally.

Q & A with Erich

Where and what are you currently studying, and why did you choose this?

I am currently pursuing a Master of Public Administration with a concentration in Public Budgeting & Finance at Kansas State University. This degree allows me to deepen my understanding of municipal finance, budgeting, and public policy, all of which are critical to making informed decisions that positively impact communities. By further developing these skills, I aim to contribute meaningfully to local government operations. I chose this field to achieve my goal of broadening my skill set and becoming a city manager. The courses I have taken so far have helped me recognize how financial expertise is essential for effective leadership in local government. 

What government are you working in or hope to work at in the future?

I currently work for Lubbock Power & Light, the municipally owned electric utility within the City of Lubbock. I started in March 2025 after spending just over two years in the city’s Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) department, where I gained experience managing the city's overall budget. While my current role focuses specifically on the electric utility, my time in FP&A gave me valuable insight into the city’s broader financial structure. I plan to stay in local government because I believe it provides a unique opportunity to make a direct, positive impact on the community. Working at this level allows me to see tangible results from financial planning and policy decisions. 

What are your future career goals?

I hope to continue growing within the municipal finance sector, ultimately working toward a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) or Assistant City Manager position. My long-term goal is to become a City Manager, where I can apply my expertise in budgeting, finance, and public administration to lead a city effectively. I want to ensure that financial decisions are made with transparency, efficiency, and community impact in mind. Through each role I take on, I aim to build a strong foundation in financial leadership and strategic planning, equipping myself with the skills necessary to oversee city operations and drive meaningful improvements for residents. 

How will GFOA’s scholarship help you achieve those goals?

The Goldberg-Miller Public Finance Scholarship will provide crucial financial support as I continue my MPA studies at Kansas State University. Pursuing this degree while working full-time requires a significant investment of both time and resources. This scholarship will ease the financial burden, allowing me to focus on developing the skills necessary to excel in municipal finance and public administration. It will also provide access to valuable networking opportunities within GFOA, connecting me with professionals and mentors who can offer insights into the evolving landscape of public finance. With this support, I will be better positioned to advance my career and make a lasting impact in local government.