​2022-2023 Trailblazers Highlighted

​Ahead of the graduation of this year's cohort of MnCUN’s Trailblazers Executive Readiness Training program in September, we will be highlighting the credit union professionals participating in the second year of the program. 
 
Cassandra Sandstrom, Hiway Credit Union, Vice President of Enterprise Risk Management
Why have you chosen a career in credit unions?
The credit union philosophy of people-helping-people is so impactful and aligns with my personal values and beliefs. Assisting our membership with all financial services while giving back to our communities we work and live in is an amazing opportunity. Providing professional growth to staff, strong member products and services and making a difference in a culture where we want to help fulfills a greater purpose!
​​How do you think the Trailblazer program will impact your career?
The Trailblazer program has provided me with the confidence, knowledge and exposure to continue to learn, grow and expand my leadership role opportunities. It has armed me with experience in credit union operations and financials, strengthened my leadership skills, provided essential key information to continue learning about and a strong group of professionals to continue to network with! I am excited about my future professional aspirations with the information, support and confidence I have gained throughout this program.
What have you enjoyed most about the program?
This program has allowed me to expand my knowledge on financials, risk, strategic planning, and credit union operations. It has also provided me the ability to network with an amazing group of individuals who have similar professional goals who share my passion, drive, leadership goals and dedication to the credit union industry. It has been an invaluable opportunity that will help me achieve my professional aspirations.

 
Michelle Nelson, Teamsters Credit Union, Vice President
Why have you chosen a career in credit unions?
Honestly, I just needed a job. I knew credit unions were different from banks, but I didn't really know why. After being hired I quickly learned the meaning behind "Members Helping Members." I was surprised at the level of customer service. The care and understanding that went into each transaction, from member services to the top level of management. This was so inspiring and refreshing to see, that I knew I wanted to be a part of this movement for a long time to come.
​​How do you think the Trailblazer program will impact your career?
It has already impacted my career. I'm using the strategies of the program in my current position. It has given me confidence and the ability to form stronger connections with employees, co-workers and members of the credit union. From learning my specific strengths to thinking about coaching as a way to manage, this opened up so many communication barriers. I have pushed myself in the past, but this program has given me the insight into several different aspects of what a leader should be. I am able to effectively communicate, motivate and connect on a much higher level.
What have you enjoyed most about the program?
I have enjoyed meeting and networking with new people. Round-tabling, learning and listening to the different ideas and strategies the other leaders in the industry have.
 
Megan Hammack, SharePoint Credit Union, Vice President - Operations
Why have you chosen a career in credit unions?
I have spent 19 years in the credit union industry because I truly care about people and their financial well-being.  The credit union mission of "people helping people" aligns with my personal belief that all things are possible if people work together and care for each other.  Finances are personal, and a credit union's vision is to understand an individual member's story and the collective stories of the communities we serve. Our members are not numbers, but real people with hopes and dreams that often require a financial lift and I'm grateful to be a part of an organization providing more access to financial resources.
​​How do you think the Trailblazer program will impact your career?
Trailblazers has already expanded my knowledge and helped me fully understand the credit union as an organization.  This program has sparked my curiosity in areas of the credit union I have less experience in and has helped me become a more thoughtful leader - specifically with the decision-making process and the impact of the decisions we make.  A well-run credit union is an integral part of delivering on our value propositions and vision, so understanding how it all works together is so important.   
What have you enjoyed most about the program?
Can I say I have enjoyed it all?  I really have - but mostly I have enjoyed getting to know my fellow cohort.  They are a smart, dynamic, and truly care about their organizations.  The network I have built is one I'm not sure I could have found on my own.  I also appreciate all the time and effort the guest speakers and MnCUN organizers have spent on this program.  I would recommend it to anyone currently in or seeking a leadership role in a credit union!
 
David Walters, Hiway Credit Union, Vice President of Lending
Why have you chosen a career in credit unions?
My passion is in lending, and I get great satisfaction serving members in a way to help them buy their dreams. 
​​How do you think the Trailblazer program will impact your career?
The Trailblazer program has helped me build a group of peers that are like minded in the credit union space. It has also helped me collaborate at a higher level and broaden my perspective of issues and challenges in our community.
What have you enjoyed most about the program?
I have enjoyed problem solving with my peers and to see that we are all alike in similar ways and have issues that are very common. 

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