that discomfort comes with growth. I try to put myself in situations or scenarios that stretch me and force me to look at things from a different perspective,” he said. The most rewarding part of Aaron’s career: “The impact I get to make every day on the community where I live. I hope that the impact I have is always a positive one.” Aaron values his MIBAmembership. “ I think MIBA’s statement of purpose sums it up,” he said. “MIBA provides resources to independent community banks that allow them to continue to serve the community. MIBA is also a voice at the state and federal levels to protect the community bank’s identity. I have really enjoyed the relationships I’ve formed within the association, and I have been fortunate to meet some very impressive bankers.” As a member of ICBA, Aaron was recognized in 2021 as an emerging community bank leader in a “40 under 40” article. He said, “The ICBA is an unbelievably valuable organization. It was a true honor to receive this recognition.” Mentors have been an important part of Aaron’s career, just as they have been for so many people. “I have had many mentors throughout my career,” he said. “The one who may have had the largest impact on me early in my career is a dear friend and former colleague, Tony Julianelle. Tony shared an important lesson early in my career. He taught me that I was responsible for my professional growth and nobody else.” Aaron expressed the three pieces of advice he shares with those he mentors: number one, read. Number two, make sure your perspective is diverse and always open to change. And number three details one of his favorite quotes by Patrick Lencioni: “If everything is important, then nothing is.” He added, “Make sure you truly prioritize important things, both personally and professionally.” When asked about the most important challenges facing the community banking industry, Aaron said, “There are many threats to our industry, but digitalization is the biggest. We must make sure we as an industry can ‘be where they are.’ The way our customers bank and want to bank is changing. We, as an industry, must listen to our customers, meet themwhere they are, and do so when they want it. Banking isn’t nine to five, Monday through Friday anymore. Customers have more banking options now than ever, and as a community bank, we must stay nimble and truly listen to our customers and our community’s needs.” Aaron suggested solving the challenges by “staying active, engaged, and intentional about listening to your customer’s needs. Leverage and embrace technology!” Aaron’s parents presently live in northern Vermont, and he has two sisters. One sister lives in northern Vermont, where she owns and operates an independent insurance agency with her husband; and the other sister, also in insurance and working for a large agency, lives in Louisville, Kentucky. Aaron’s father is retired from manufacturing. Aaron and his wife, Cassie, have three children. Mia (14) will be a high school freshman next year. Elijah (11) will be in sixth grade, and Brody (9) is headed to the fourth grade. In conclusion, Aaron said, “Love, learn and grow. Love what you do and who you are around. If you learn something every day, your growth is guaranteed!” ■ I have an amazing team. The people who are part of it are focused on the customers and the communities we serve. June 2022 | 13
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