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. the change we wish to see in our state and always making sure each change enhances our community and the services we provide. What advice do you have for young bankers? To a young banker, I would offer the same advice that was given to me by my mentors: 1. Take the job that provides you with the most experience in the least amount of time. Banking has so many different facets, so seek jobs that expose you to diversified experiences early and often. 2. Be willing to say yes! Say yes to the job that takes you to a town you’ve never heard of. Don’t get caught up in fancy job descriptions, as a career in banking is always changing. Say yes to doing hard work and taking on responsibilities; you’ll quickly learn about the banking industry and, hopefully, about yourself. Please tell us about your family. My wife, Tiffany, who grew up in Gallup, is a loving partner and is my most important colleague. She is an inspiration to our whole family in all she does. We have made our home together in Gallup for the past 10 years with our two children, a senior daughter in high school and a two-year-old son. We balance time with her family, who live locally, and with my family in Colorado. What are your interests outside of banking? What do you like to do for fun? Outside of banking, I enjoy spending time with friends and family and traveling when we can. I enjoy listening to music; my daughter and I take turns being confused by what we both consider to be good “music” these days. I also love cooking and trying new recipes, but I’m notorious around my house for burning the kale chips. After family time has been had, the chores are done and it’s time to turn in, I love reading any chance I can. What person or persons have had the greatest impact on you and your success as a banker? This is a difficult question to answer because so many have contributed to my personal growth and professional success. I owe my foundational values and character to my parents. They taught me that education is crucial and that it should be learned not only in school and books but through hard work and experience. This helped develop my unwavering work ethic and showed me the importance of gratitude. In my professional career, I’ve had the good fortune of having many different individuals contribute to my development in every phase of my path. Some I met as their banker who inspired me to be a better leader in our community, and others I’ve worked with or for that helped me develop into the banker I am today. 7
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