Downtown Denizen: Aaron Roberts

Aaron Roberts
Senior Manager of Accounting and Systems, Downtown Project

What was your favorite subject in school?
Math, of course.

Which of your accomplishments has made you most proud?
My dad and I spent several years rebuilding and restoring my first car, a 1968 Ford Mustang. We both learned as we went and when it was complete was something that made us both proud.

What are some of the different jobs that you have had in your life?
I started working when I was 14 so this could be a long and diverse list. My first job was a batboy and selling programs for the Las Vegas Stars (now the 51s). I worked for a bank and then an escrow company. I was the lead singer and guitar player of a band for several years (never got the job of rockstar though). I ran a small recording studio and was an audio tech for some local shows. I’ve been an automotive mechanic and I managed an automotive custom shop (remember Pimp My Ride? Yep, just like that). I now have the most exciting job anyone can have, I’m an accountant.

Do you have a favorite quote or saying that inspires you?
I have a few: “If you trust in yourself … and believe in your dreams … and follow your star … you’ll still get beaten by people who spent their time working hard and learning things and weren’t so lazy.” – Terry Prachett. Also: “Knowing what’s right doesn’t mean much unless you do what’s right.” – Theodore Roosevelt.  My favorite was something simple my dad would tell me every single morning, just four little words: “Be a good guy.”

Which song would you choose for karaoke?
Jump Around by House of Pain. It is the first song I ever knew all the words to, which would make it easier to karaoke.

When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I always wanted to be an architect (just like George Costanza).

If you could give one piece of advice to your 10-year-old self, what would it be?
Cherish the time you have with the people you love. Also, don’t be worried to mess up or embarrass yourself, it makes for much funnier stories later on.

In one sentence, what does the future of Downtown Las Vegas look like to you?
A place so transformed and different that no one remembers how bad it once was.

What is your favorite book to read or favorite movie to watch?
The Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holiday and The Dorito Effect by Mark Schatzker.

What is your favorite downtown venue?
Any place with Mexican food. Pinches, La Comida, and Glutton (they have amazing Huevos Rancheros).