Connecting Communities In his role at UBT, Sears has found the most rewarding part to be the relationships he has built and continues to build with customers. He also enjoys strengthening connections with the bank’s team, watching coworkers bloom and advance to management. But Sears doesn’t just make time for customers and coworkers; he makes giving back to his community a priority. “UBT encourages all employees to volunteer and offers many opportunities to do so, from hosting shred days at the bank to boxing up food for kids at school and more. It’s important to support your community,” Sears said. “If you have a thriving community, there’s a good chance at least one bank is there.” Sears recognizes that while banks provide a variety of services, their main purpose is to support people. He believes banks’ role is to help individuals achieve their dreams through financial planning and lending for major purchases or life events. “No matter the size of the bank, they all provide the same basic services — financial support and guidance — to the communities they serve. When the banking system comes together, the whole system becomes stronger,” Sears said. Goals as Chair In his role as NBA chair, Sears is excited to help industry members support one another as he gets to know bankers from across Nebraska. He’s looking forward to hearing from NBA members about what is and isn’t working across banks of all sizes in order to help them thrive. Travis Sears (left) and Mark Linville Travis Sears and Mark Linville at Husker Harvest Days in 2025 Additionally, he plans to help develop new ways to fight fraud across the industry, including furthering the NBA’s anti-fraud initiatives, such as the Fraud Free Nebraska Coalition and the new “That’s a Red Flag” scam awareness and prevention campaign (thatsaredflag.com). Sears also plans to keep an eye on federal banking regulations and to encourage regulatory reform to make it easier for banks to provide what their communities need without all the “red tape.” “Right now, we’re facing increasing pressure from the regulatory environment, a rise in fraud and a need to constantly adapt in how we serve our communities. But one thing is clear — we’re stronger when we face these issues together,” Sears said. “No bank should be out there on an island. Our ability to collaborate is one of our greatest strengths.” Mentoring the Next Generation Prior to becoming NBA chair, Sears gained experience volunteering in leadership roles within the NBA, including serving on various committees and the board of directors. He is also a graduate of the KBA/NBA Advanced School of Banking and the Operations School. Sears credits various teachers, mentors and role models for shaping his view on leadership and community focus. Sears hopes to give back to the industry that has given him so much over the years. For those considering a career in banking, he encourages them to apply at their local bank and gain exposure to the various positions within the industry. According to Sears, being a banker is so much more than a job; it’s a career, whether you’re a teller, IT person, lender, marketer or something else. “If you’re good at building relationships, there are endless opportunities within banking,” Sears says. 10 NEBRASKA BANKER
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