CBA Centerpoint GOING BEYOND THE DESK TO HEAR THE STORIES OF COLORADO BANKERS Scott Aylor Commercial Market President, Boulder County First Interstate Bank What is the most rewarding aspect of your job? The most rewarding part of my job is the impact we’re able to make in our local community. As bankers, we play a pivotal role — from financing new developments and helping businesses expand, to supporting first-time homebuyers in achieving their dream of homeownership. Seeing clients’ financial goals come to life is incredibly fulfilling and a reminder of how meaningful our work truly is. What is the most important thing you’ve learned from a career in banking? Throughout my career, I’ve learned that relationships and trust are at the heart of banking. Finances can be deeply personal and sometimes sensitive, so building trust within your network takes time and genuine effort. It’s incredibly humbling when clients refer new business or view you as a trusted advisor — those moments are a true testament to the relationships you’ve built and the integrity you bring to your work. What topic could you give a 20-minute presentation on without any preparation? I could easily give a 20-minute presentation on SBA 504 lending. I’m passionate about this program because it empowers small business owners to purchase their own space — creating long-term stability and equity while supporting business growth. It’s one of the best financing tools available, and I believe more business owners should be aware of how it can help them expand and invest in their future. Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know. In college, I founded a nonprofit organization that provided temporary housing for individuals experiencing homelessness by repurposing recycled shipping containers. The experience taught me a great deal about leadership, community needs and the vital role nonprofits play in strengthening our communities. Today, as part of a community bank, I’m continually inspired by the incredible nonprofits we support and the difference they make locally. Jereme Koehler Senior Vice President FirstBank, now part of PNC Bank How did you get started in the banking industry? When my wife (then girlfriend) moved to Vail for work, I saw it as the perfect time for a fresh start. I wasn’t enjoying my job at the time, and a position at FirstBank in Avon caught my eye. Banking had always been on my radar because I admired my uncle, who was a bank president, and thought it could be a career that offered both growth and purpose. I was fortunate to be hired as a management trainee, and 16 years later, I’m still here. FirstBank has given me opportunities to learn different areas of the business, grow as a leader and build a rewarding career. What is the most rewarding aspect of your job? As an internal auditor, I have the opportunity to add value across the entire organization by helping teams enhance efficiency, strengthen controls and reduce risk through meaningful insights into their business processes. The most rewarding part of this role is knowing that my work not only improves how we operate internally but also contributes to a stronger, more resilient organization that ultimately serves our customers more effectively and builds their trust in us. What do you like to do to give back to the community (either personally, as a bank representative or both)? I serve as secretary/treasurer for Jeffco Prosperity Partners, a nonprofit dedicated to helping Jefferson County families move from poverty to prosperity. We use a two-generation approach, supporting parents and children together through education, coaching and community connections. It is incredibly rewarding to see the impact this work has on families’ lives. What do you geek out about? Fantasy football. I probably spend too much time on podcasts and stats, but I love the strategy behind it, and honestly, I just love football. When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? I wanted to own a toy store. To me, it sounded like the ultimate dream job: playing with toys all day and having fun at work. Of course, I didn’t realize back then how much online shopping would change the world of retail. Colorado Banker 14
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTg3NDExNQ==