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.

​Mandy Anderson, Branch Manager, Accentra Credit Union 

​Why have you chosen a career in credit unions? 

​I originally looked into working at Accentra because they were opening a new branch and I loved the thought of being a part of that. The more I researched credit unions, particularly Accentra, the more I was impressed with their mission of focusing on their members financial success instead of on making a profit.

How do you think the Trailblazer program will impact your career?
The Trailblazer program has helped me to learn about so many different areas of credit unions and the people who make those areas a success. Being new to the credit union world it has really helped understand how it all comes together.

What have you enjoyed most about the program?
What I have enjoyed most about the credit union are the speakers at each meeting, whether in person or virtual. Each one has brought so much knowledge and value to the topics.

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​Mayka Thao, SVP Global Planning & Delivery, TruStone Financial Credit Union

Why have you chosen a career in credit unions?
One of my primary objectives in the Credit Union workforce is to meet the needs of our members and our communities in a way that is not about maximizing profits but instead, maximizing values to our members to build, improve and achieve lifelong financial well-being.

How do you think the Trailblazer program will impact your career?
With minimal background on financial reports and ALM, I really enjoyed the financials sessions of the Trailblazer program. I gained great insights into the balance sheet, income statement, statement of cash, etc.; perhaps, a little too much materials for a novice like me, but I like that it keeps my curiosity going. Finance has been an area of interest for me and with the exposure through the Trailblazer program, I will continue to expand knowledge in the finance space. 

What have you enjoyed most about the program?
Apart from the Trailblazer topics, I enjoyed the networking opportunities with my cohort, learning different experiences, and exploring new great ideas. Learning is a lifelong process to me and the Trailblazer program has helped me acquire new knowledge for new opportunities and seek innovative solutions.

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Jacob Weinand, Corporate Counsel, Wings Financial Credit Union
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Why have you chosen a career in credit unions?
I chose a career in credit unions because credit unions offer an essential service in a truly personalized and customer-oriented way. I also believe credit union employees, leadership, and those involved in the credit union world are the best people.

How do you think the Trailblazer program will impact your career?
The Trailblazer program has already had a big impact on my career, primarily by giving me the opportunity to network with, and get to know an awesome group of colleagues. The information we've learned throughout the program has given me a more well-rounded understanding of how credit unions operate, including best practices for ensuring optimal member service and credit union performance. The relationships created and information learned in the Trailblazer program will be great resources throughout my career.

What have you enjoyed most about the program?
What I've enjoyed most about the Trailblazer program is getting to know, and having the opportunity to work with an amazing group of individuals in the credit union space. 

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Abbie White, Corporate Partnerships, Wings Financial Credit Union

Why have you chosen a career in credit unions?
I was actually recruited to come work with Wings. I was in health care previously where we focused on putting the patient first. Being in the credit union space, we always put the members first. It was a natural fit and I love being able to see the impact of my role! It's amazing to have members come up to you and say they were able to finance their first home or car. Or they've saved enough money during the year that the don't have to put holiday gifts on a credit card.

How do you think the Trailblazer program will impact your career?
The Trailblazer Program has been incredibly beneficial. It's so easy to get stuck 'staying in your lane' and only focusing on things that directly impact your role. But in order to grow, you need to learn from other departments and areas. Throughout this program, I've learned how to read reports, build strategic plans, and build a network! Without these program, I wouldn't have had a reason to push myself to learn something new that I don't see every day.
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What have you enjoyed most about the program?
​I've enjoyed learning from other areas like finance, strategic planning, DEI efforts, and operations. I firmly believe that you need to keep learning in order to grow your career. By being part of this program, I've got built in times to absorb everything that is being taught. Plus, I love meeting other individuals who are equally excited about growing their careers! And now I have people to chat with at Network events. 

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