What do you think will be some of the dominant trends within the banking industry in the next 5-10 years? The expansion of fintech and technology within banking will become more prevalent, not necessarily from the customer-facing side of things but from the backroom standpoint. Unfortunately, I see consolidation coming due to needing to find new talent to move up and take over. It’s hard to get young talent to move to small, rural areas unless they are from there. What has been the most rewarding part of your career? Overall, helping people. From helping customers meet their goals and dreams to assisting employees and helping them get on the right career path, it has all been very rewarding. How long have you been active in the West Virginia Bankers Association? I’ve been a member through the banks I’ve worked at since 1988. I have been an active board member since 2006. Why is being a member of WVBA important? As a collective group, WVBA does an amazing job advocating for our industry. It’s important that our voice is heard on legislative issues, and that couldn’t happen without strong members. There is power in numbers. What are you looking forward to most as the WVBA Chairman? I am looking forward to the whole experience, not just one thing. I hope this will be a quiet year, but I am prepared for whatever comes. I am humbled and thankful that I have this opportunity to serve. Vespio, Austin, Texas, September 2023 Grandkids with Cuckoo Clocks from Black Forest, Germany, December 2019 8 West Virginia Banker
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