3. Match and Hire: Candidates are matched with aligned roles at banking partners and guided through each partner’s formal hiring process. Banking partners retain final hiring authority, selecting candidates that best meet their specific needs. 4. Accelerate and Retain: Hired candidates become fellows and receive eight months of dynamic workshops, expert coaching, individualized career mapping and access to monthly sessions led by subject matter experts. This structured approach ensures both candidates and employers receive maximum value from the program while building a foundation for long-term success. Early Success Stories The program’s effectiveness is already evident through the experiences of its first fellows. Brandon Gutierrez and Alex Aleman joined Alpine Bank in 2024 and have quickly proven their value. Alex has since been promoted from teller to personal banker and leads his region in both new account openings and quarterly sales. Brandon has expanded his teller role to include greater responsibilities and leadership opportunities. These early successes validate the Fellowship’s approach to identifying high-potential candidates who might otherwise be overlooked by traditional recruiting processes. As Matt Teeters notes, “We recognize that to best engage with all communities along the Front Range, it’s critical that we recruit and employ individuals who live and work in each of the communities we desire to serve.” Creating Value Through Diversity The Fellowship emphasizes finding talent who reflects the communities that banks serve, helping financial institutions build more authentic connections with diverse populations. By demystifying the financial sector and making it more accessible, the program attracts candidates who might not otherwise consider banking careers. For banks like Alpine, this represents an opportunity to accelerate growth while strengthening community relationships. “Given the Watson Institute’s work with the Boulder Chamber, its proven track record of recruiting, developing and mentoring individuals from diverse communities throughout metro Denver, and its strong reputation, we identified the Watson Institute as a natural partner,” explains Teeters. A Model for the Future The Career Accelerator Fellowship represents more than just a training program — it’s a comprehensive talent ecosystem that addresses immediate workforce needs while building a pipeline of future leaders. Through its registered apprenticeship status, the program aligns with state priorities around workforce development while providing tangible benefits to both individuals and employers. As Wiggins explains, “As a whole, adult apprenticeships and Career Accelerator Fellowships support individuals who aim to find success in a new career path — not just a job. When we have the opportunity to build tiered apprenticeships with employers — one path leading to the next, scaling work-ready skills — we do.” The Watson Institute Career Accelerator Fellowship offers a powerful solution to Colorado’s financial services talent gap. By combining personalized development, expert coaching and strategic matching with financial incentives for employers, the program creates a win-win scenario for all stakeholders. For financial institutions looking to strengthen their talent pipeline while diversifying their workforce, the Fellowship provides a proven, cost-effective approach. For job seekers aiming to build meaningful careers in the financial sector, it offers a structured pathway to success with ongoing support. To learn more or explore partnership opportunities, contact Emanuel Wilder at emanuel@watson.is or visit watson.is/career-accelerator. Watson Institute is a place where rising entrepreneurs and leaders can find their community, discover their calling and accelerate their careers. In partnership with leading corporations and foundations, Watson Institute powers Fellowships to support highly promising, historically disenfranchised rising entrepreneurs and leaders. The Career Accelerator Fellowship provides award-winning leadership skills training, dedicated coaching, long-term alumni support and access to a global community of peers, mentors and opportunities. 11 Colorado Banker
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTg3NDExNQ==