GOING BEYOND THE DESK TO HEAR THE STORIES OF COLORADO BANKERS Mike Steppenbacker Colorado Market President Kirkpatrick Bank What is the most rewarding aspect of your job? The greatest joy I find in my work is helping business owners and investors achieve their goals. It’s not just about the final payout when a business or real estate property is sold; it’s about the entire journey. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals who were approaching retirement or reaching a significant financial milestone, and being part of the process that helped them get there is incredibly fulfilling. Celebrating those moments with my clients is the most rewarding aspect of my job — it never loses its impact, no matter how many times I experience it. One of the most touching aspects of my career is hearing people say, “I couldn’t have done this without your partnership.” Knowing that I’ve played a role in their success is a wonderful feeling. I love helping people navigate the path from Point A to Point B, and seeing their hard work pay off is deeply gratifying. What are you most proud of in your professional life? One of my greatest professional achievements was building a strong, cohesive team. At my previous financial institution, I had the opportunity to assemble an incredible group of individuals who genuinely enjoyed working together. I believe I have a talent for recognizing people with the right combination of humility, work ethic and a genuine desire to serve and support each other. As a former athlete, I’ve always appreciated the importance of teamwork. There’s something special about a group coming together, setting aside egos and working hard toward a shared goal. The team I built in my last job was truly exceptional, and I still hold deep admiration and appreciation for the people I worked with. What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in your career in banking? One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of using leverage wisely. Leverage can be a powerful tool when managed responsibly, but it must be utilized with caution. I’ve seen individuals overextend themselves and end up in challenging situations, and I’ve also seen those who were too hesitant and missed out on great opportunities. As bankers, we have the ability to help people make informed financial decisions, but we also have a responsibility to ensure they are not placed in precarious positions. Striking the right balance with leverage can make a significant difference in helping customers realize financial success. Who has been the most influential figure in your life? I don’t believe there is just one person who has shaped my life. Instead, I often encourage young professionals to look around them — at colleagues, mentors, family members — and learn from the best qualities each person has to offer. That’s the approach I’ve taken in my own life. For example, I admire one person’s work ethic, another’s generosity and someone else’s leadership skills. Rather than placing the weight of influence on a single individual, I believe in drawing inspiration from multiple sources. I also remind young people that by embodying these qualities, we can one day become a source of inspiration for someone else. 13 Colorado Banker
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