Wendt Grows Through Learning
Angela Wendt, commercial and agricultural banking associate at F&M Bank, started her career as an intern. After she finished college, Wendt explored several career paths in the bank. She has been involved in several teams, including mortgage underwriting, CSR, data processing and loan processing. Her advice to new bankers would be to learn as much as you can about everything you can. “You don’t have to know it all, but you will benefit most from being able to connect with others who have more experience and knowledge of those areas,” she said.
Wendt is glad that she has been able to get involved with the IBA. She feels she has been able to learn a lot from the IBA’s schools and seminars while also building her network. She has also seen how it impacts her team members at the bank. “Our bank relies on IBA’s schools and seminars for further education for our team members in every area of the bank,” she added.
When looking back on your banking career, what achievement are you most proud of and why?
I am proud of how far I have come since starting at F&M Bank. I started as an intern in a location I wasn’t very familiar with. After I finished college, I progressed to mortgage underwriting in my home location, Manchester. Since then, I have assisted with leading our CSR team, data processing and loan processing. I am now learning directly from our commercial bankers and market presidents, which is what I aspire to be. I’m proud that I’ve never lost sight of my goals and been able to trust the process along the way.
What piece of advice would you give to your past self or to anyone considering a career in banking?
My advice would be to explore as many areas of the bank as you can and learn as much as possible. You don’t have to know it all, but you will benefit most from being able to connect with others who have more experience and knowledge of those areas.
What is your best elevator pitch for why banking is a great career?
Banking offers a variety of roles suitable for all different types of personalities and skills. It is an ever-evolving industry that pushes continuous learning and connection with people inside and outside of the bank. No two days are ever the same. Community bankers need to make clients feel valued and have deep relationships with their clientele. It is truly an important field.
How does getting involved with the Iowa Bankers Association help you and your bank?
The IBA has presented me with many unique opportunities and connected me with peers who have offered a substantial amount of support for my banking career. Our bank relies on IBA’s schools and seminars for further education for our team members in every area of the bank. During my time at F&M Bank, I have been able to participate in various IBA schools, including Consumer Credit School, Commercial Banking School, and the Leadership Institute.
When you’re not at work, what do you like to do most?
I love to water ski and spend time on Lake Delhi with my family and friends! I am the treasurer of The Hartwick Huskys Water Ski Team, based out of Manchester. We perform a ski show every summer for our local community and compete across the Midwest for regional and national titles.
What is a quote or guiding principle you live by?
You don’t climb the corporate ladder, you build one.