Doug Burgum’s Humorous Entry into Business School: A Chimney Sweep Story
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum recently shared insights into his entrepreneurial beginnings during an appearance on the podcast "Pod Force One." He humorously recounted how his initial job as a chimney sweep played a pivotal role in his acceptance into business school.
Looking to advance quickly while maintaining financial stability, Burgum joked about his job application to various MBA programs. "I sought a position where I could elevate my career rapidly and always remain profitable," he remarked to Miranda Devine of The Post.
His clever approach paid off, as he received acceptance letters from all the institutions he applied to, including Stanford University, where he ultimately completed his MBA, as well as Harvard, Dartmouth, Northwestern, the University of Virginia, and the University of Chicago.
Burgum quipped, "It seemed like every MBA program was in need of a chimney sweep," highlighting the unique impression his background made.
The North Dakota governor and former official in the Trump administration launched his chimney sweep business as a college senior at North Dakota State University during the energy crisis caused by the OPEC oil embargo. "People reverted to burning wood for heat," he noted, adding that soaring oil prices made conventional heating unaffordable for many families.
This enterprising endeavor caught the attention of the Associated Press, which featured a compelling profile of Burgum during his student days. "There was this rugged black-and-white photo of me atop a chimney in frigid conditions, steam billowing while ice surrounded me," he recalled. He used this image as part of his business school applications, cleverly photocopying it for inclusion.
In a further reflection on his venture, Burgum described how he donned "top hat and tails" as part of his chimneysweeping uniform. Some clients humorously expected him to perform a faux-Cockney accent, reminiscent of the character played by Dick Van Dyke in "Mary Poppins." "That became part of the expectation," he said, noting that homeowners often requested him to sing the famous "Chim Chimney" tune.
Burgum cleverly deflected those requests by jokingly stating, "I could sing, but it would cost extra," effectively avoiding impromptu performances during his rounds.
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