How did you get started in banking?
Like many of my peers, my journey into banking began unintentionally.
I was raised in a tight-knit town of roughly 1,500 residents, where I developed a passion for the unique charm and intimacy only found in small-town life. As many young folks do, I left for college, initially pursuing business studies which eventually narrowed down to economics and finance.
During my college breaks, I would return home to work at a local car dealership, changing oil and washing cars. These trips made it clear that, while I enjoyed being away, one day, I would either return home or plant my own roots in another similarly close community.
While my boss appreciated my hard work at the dealership, he encouraged me to apply myself in new ways, seeking opportunities more aligned with my studies. Heeding his advice, I secured an internship the subsequent summer with Bank of Colorado/Pinnacle Bank, conveniently situated close to my hometown. This internship paved the way for a full-time position upon my graduation. Fast forward to today, I’m raising my family in our amazing community, and I’m celebrating 23 years of service with Pinnacle Bank.
What are some of the best parts of being a banker in rural New Mexico?
Banking in rural New Mexico presents a plethora of positives, but what stands out most prominently to me are the community ties and enduring relationships you don’t find everywhere. These small towns, despite their unparalleled charm, grapple with challenges and greatly benefit from active participation by their residents. Through banking, not only are we provided with a means to raise our families, but we also find avenues to invest back into the community. By dedicating our time, offering sponsorships and making donations, we have the privilege of making tangible impacts that make our community a better place. The deep connections we establish with individuals and businesses along the way are not only rewarding but truly fulfilling.
What changes do you foresee in the banking industry and in New Mexico in the next five years?
Banking is in a constant state of evolution. Technology changes the way we interact with customers, and we will continue to adapt to those changing behaviors and expectations. Regulations and oversight also can be catalysts for change. While New Mexico traditionally embraces change at a more measured pace, we in the banking sphere must be proactive, ensuring that the state keeps pace with broader industry transformations. Passive expectations won’t suffice; it’s crucial that we all actively steer growth in every facet, shaping the change we wish to see in our state and always making sure each change enhances our community and the services we provide.
What advice do you have for young bankers?
To a young banker, I would offer the same advice that was given to me by my mentors:
- Take the job that provides you with the most experience in the least amount of time.
Banking has so many different facets, so seek jobs that expose you to diversified experiences early and often. - Be willing to say yes!
Say yes to the job that takes you to a town you’ve never heard of. Don’t get caught up in fancy job descriptions, as a career in banking is always changing. Say yes to doing hard work and taking on responsibilities; you’ll quickly learn about the banking industry and, hopefully, about yourself.
Please tell us about your family.
My wife, Tiffany, who grew up in Gallup, is a loving partner and is my most important colleague. She is an inspiration to our whole family in all she does. We have made our home together in Gallup for the past 10 years with our two children, a senior daughter in high school and a two-year-old son. We balance time with her family, who live locally, and with my family in Colorado.
What are your interests outside of banking? What do you like to do for fun?
Outside of banking, I enjoy spending time with friends and family and traveling when we can. I enjoy listening to music; my daughter and I take turns being confused by what we both consider to be good “music” these days.
I also love cooking and trying new recipes, but I’m notorious around my house for burning the kale chips.
After family time has been had, the chores are done and it’s time to turn in, I love reading any chance I can.
What person or persons have had the greatest impact on you and your success as a banker?
This is a difficult question to answer because so many have contributed to my personal growth and professional success.
I owe my foundational values and character to my parents. They taught me that education is crucial and that it should be learned not only in school and books but through hard work and experience. This helped develop my unwavering work ethic and showed me the importance of gratitude.
In my professional career, I’ve had the good fortune of having many different individuals contribute to my development in every phase of my path. Some I met as their banker who inspired me to be a better leader in our community, and others I’ve worked with or for that helped me develop into the banker I am today.
