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 WELCOME 2023-2024 NMBA PRESIDENT MARK HORN A Man of Dedication and Commitment 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 6
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