In your own words, describe what your role is at the bank:
My job title is a commercial lender, but my role is to help businesses grow and be successful by providing a variety of loan products, services and financial expertise. Sometimes it may not be a good fit for various reasons, but I will always try to help businesses get the help they need for long-term success.

How did you get into banking?
As a sophomore in college, I was unsure what I wanted to do with my life, but knew I wanted to do something related to finance and helping people, so I applied as a teller at West Gate Bank on South St. in Lincoln in 2011. When I graduated from UNL in 2013, I was hired as a credit analyst and became a commercial lender in the summer of 2016.

What does effective leadership look like to you?
An effective leader is someone who uses clear communication to convey expectations and actively adjust based on feedback. They also need to motivate and inspire those around them to become better.

Why is banking a great career?
Banking is an ever-changing field that allows you to help your community in a variety of ways. My parents owned a small business growing up and I see banking as a great way to help businesses grow, which in turn helps the community grow.

Share your favorite book, podcast or quote. Why is it your favorite?
"Perfection is not attainable. But if we chase perfection, we can catch excellence." - Vince Lombardi. I like this quote because we will all make mistakes along the way, but we must continue to learn from our mistakes and strive for perfection.

In your own words, describe what your role is at the bank:
I ensure that the operations departments, both loan and deposit, have an efficient process that results in the best outcome for our institution and the employee.

How did you get into banking?
In all honesty, I needed a job in high school to help pay for my gas. My business teacher encouraged me to apply at First State to be a teller, and as the saying goes, "the rest is history." I grew to love the complexity of the industry and how everything worked. As a customer everything seemed simple, but as an employee I learned so much more.

What does effective leadership look like to you?
Growth. I think when there are effective leaders the result is growth. I believe you need to grow your employees in knowledge and confidence, and then there will be growth in asset size and bottom line. A leader should be someone that understands the importance of people and how they can get you to where you want to go. 

Why is banking a great career?
The opportunities are endless in the banking industry. There truly is something for everyone. Anything from finances to salesmen, it really has it all. It is a great industry to help people in many ways. Whether it be to buy their first house, start a business or help teach kids about saving. We are here to help.

Share your favorite book, podcast or quote. Why is it your favorite?
My favorite podcast is "That Sounds Fun" because it starts my day with a smile.

Is there anything else you'd like people to know about you or banking?
I have two wonderful daughters that keep us busy and smiling. I love playing sports, being in water and having great friendships. I've been in banking for over half my life!