​2021-2022 Trailblazers Highlighted

​Ahead of the graduation of the first cohort of MnCUN’s Trailblazers Executive Readiness Training program in September, we will be highlighting the credit union professionals participating in the inaugural year of the program. ​​

Nate Olson, Regional Manager, Mid Minnesota Federal Credit Union 

​Why have you chosen a career in credit unions?
I began at a young age and the culture has kept me here. I can't imagine working in any other industry. 

​How do you think the Trailblazer program will impact your career?
I think it has already provided me more insight to other areas of my own organization as well as industry trends. I feel confident that this program will eventually lead me to executive status.

What have you enjoyed most about the program?
The group of people! It's been a privilege to get to see the compassion and dedication that others have towards their organizations. The information is priceless as well as creating a better connection with the league. I've really enjoyed my experience. 

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​Cory Ouellette, VP-Operations, Minnesota Power Employees Credit Union

Why have you chosen a career in credit unions?
From the moment I started working at MPECU, I knew a career in credit unions was the path I wanted to follow. I have such a commitment to the credit union movement, and I am really all about the people-helping-people philosophy. One of the great things I've come to appreciate about this industry is how much everyone wants to see each other be successful whether it be personally, professionally, supporting the local communities, etc. I often hear our members say, "This is why I love my credit union!" Those comments provide such a sense of accomplishment, and it is one of the many reasons I will continue (and encourage others) to be an advocate for credit unions.

How do you think the Trailblazer program will impact your career?
My ultimate goal is to one day become President/CEO of a credit union. While I understand that's not going to be an easy feat, I'm hopeful credit union executives will notice the hard work and dedication I've put in. This program has really made me think more about my "why" and my "purpose", and I feel more driven than ever to be a strong leader. I also want to remain a positive role model for my team and any other credit union professional that wants to grow their career.

What have you enjoyed most about the program?
This program has been very insightful, especially for someone like myself who has been strictly in one department since I began working at the credit union. I really had no prior knowledge on key ratios, call reports, ALM, or strategic planning so having that understanding now makes me feel even more confident in my job, especially as I transition into my new role. The networking piece has also been extremely valuable. It's always great to make new connections--many become familiar faces at various credit union events or conferences. It's nice to be able to bounce ideas off someone outside your own credit union to get additional perspectives on a certain topic or issue. Some of these connections made through networking may even become a great mentor throughout your time in the credit union industry (and beyond).

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Sarah Pedersen, Indirect Underwriter II, Hiway Credit Union
Why have you chosen a career in credit unions?
I chose a career in credit unions because I appreciate the people helping people philosophy and the cooperative efforts. I value the financial education credit unions offer to members and how serious they are about being socially responsible.

How do you think the Trailblazer program will impact your career?
The trailblazer program has helped with my career by providing me opportunities to learn about other aspects of running a successful credit union and familiarizing myself with areas I currently do not have much involvement in. It provided me an environment to comfortably learn and to  ask questions to experts.

What have you enjoyed most about the program?
I enjoyed learning from keynote speakers and hearing about their areas of expertise. It helped learning from different enthusiastic teachers in each meeting. I really enjoyed the cohort as well. It was very fun to form friendships across different credit unions with like-minded individuals in varying roles and titles. 

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Anita QuagliaGanje, VP Member Engagement, Minnco Credit Union
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Why have you chosen a career in credit unions?
I have close to 30 years of financial institution experience at various organizations.  Having a career with credit unions allows me to impact the communities that we live and work in along with improving the financial well-being of those that live in the areas that we serve. I find value in not only saying we are community minded but also living it each day.  I love being part of something that is bigger than myself. 

How do you think the Trailblazer program will impact your career?
The Trailblazer program has given me the opportunity to interact with credit union leaders.  The time that I have spent learning from the Minnesota/Wisconsin experts and to listen to their perceptive on how their area impacts the overall credit union has been invaluable. To have the knowledge from those that are in the trenches will prepare me for my journey as a credit union leader.

What have you enjoyed most about the program?
I have enjoyed the time to get to know the other Trailblazers. Spending time with these credit union influencers has given me the opportunity to grow as a leader. I think having connections to use as resources has been invaluable to me.

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