Press
Minn. Young Professionals Group Receives Insight from Industry Experts
Rachel Anderson
(800) 477-1034, (651) 288-5527
randerson@mncun.org
BLOOMINGTON, Minn. – Members of the Minnesota Credit Union Network’s (MnCUN’s) young professional group The Crew tapped into the insight of industry professionals during a roundtable meeting held on April 14. Coordinated in conjunction with MnCUN’s Annual Meeting & Convention, this event featured CUNA President & CEO Bill Cheney, MnCUN President & CEO Mark Cummins, and credit union branding expert Mark Arnold providing career advice and wisdom.
Launched this year, The Crew is an informal, event-based networking group for young professionals who have the desire to grow in their career. The group is geared toward professionals under the age of 35 and provides individuals professional development and networking opportunities. At MnCUN’s major credit union conferences, Crew members receive discounted pricing and have special access to speakers, key credit union leaders, and unique event programming.
During the roundtable featuring Cheney, Cummins and Arnold, Crew members asked the industry experts questions about career development, effective networking, and the lessons they’ve learned over the years.
When asked for his advice on how young people can grow professionally, Cheney encouraged attendees to take responsibility for their careers. He urged Crew members to find a mentor “who is willing to invest their experience in your career.” He also challenged them to strive to be industry leaders – regardless of their current position.
“Don’t be afraid to be a leader,” Cheney said. “Don’t be afraid to do what’s right, even if it is not popular or exactly profitable.”
As he reflected on his career, Cummins urged Crew members to take full advantage of networking opportunities offered at chapter meetings and other industry events. Emphasizing the importance of pursuing and embracing challenges, Cummins stressed the value of taking risks in your career.
“Sometimes you have to take a big leap in your career – even when you don’t know how it will turn out,” Cummins said.
He went on to state that career “leaps of faith” often lead people directly to where they were meant to be. Building upon Cummins advice, Arnold encouraged the young professionals to follow their passions, even if they don’t know where it will take them.
In addition to the roundtable, Crew members also participated in a networking pizza party during the Annual Meeting that provided them the opportunity to connect with other young credit union professionals from around the state. Committed to developing the next generation of leaders, MnCUN will continue to provide Crew members unique programs and activities aimed at helping them grow professionally.
The Minnesota Credit Union Network is an organization representing the state’s 140 not-for-profit cooperative credit unions serving more than 1.5 million member-owners in Minnesota. For more information, visit www.mncun.org.