Public Safety Commissioner Alphonse Petracco was a prominent guest at this year’s annual Career Day at John H. Walker Middle School in Nutley. The former Mayor of Nutley shared his journey, recounting how he initially aimed to become an electronic engineer but eventually ventured into entrepreneurship, founding one of Essex County’s most beloved delis.

“I had an amazing time participating in Career Day,” Commissioner Petracco expressed. “It was wonderful to connect with the future leaders of our Township. Although capturing the attention of middle schoolers at 9AM can be a challenge, I think I managed to engage them when I invited a couple of boys who seemed a bit distracted up on stage—much like I would have been at their age,” he chuckled.

The Commissioner highlighted his "three-legged stool" of success. “The first leg represents your dreams, the second is hard work, and the third acknowledges that change is inevitable. You have to dream big, put in the effort, and always be ready for shifts because nothing remains constant.”

Recognizing these three principles guided the Commissioner through a diverse career path that included roles in supermarkets, catering, nightclubs, dry cleaners, laundromats, real estate, and eventually, the Mayorship.

“I aimed to engage them,” he noted. “I wanted to convey that they have the same opportunities I had years ago. I was fortunate to have many mentors who supported my success. Events like this are wonderful because they allow us to give back to the next generation.”

“I had a fantastic time with those kids. There’s a lot of negativity surrounding the younger generations today, but I must say these kids are remarkable. They truly are impressive, and it gives me great confidence in the future of Nutley.”