Uncommon Paths, Unmatched Impact: The Secret Ingredient in Credit Union Teams

At Corporate Central, our team’s diverse backgrounds shape how we serve members and drive success. Skills gained in retail, hospitality, education, and other fields become the foundation for meaningful connections, creative problem solving, and exceptional service. The unique journeys of our staff show how transferable skills are the secret ingredient that makes credit unions thrive. 

From Classroom to Credit Union: Inspiring Growth in Every Role
Amy Nowak, Human Resources Generalist, Former Educator 
Teaching gave me the ability to communicate clearly, stay organized, and adapt quickly. Patience and the knack for breaking down complex ideas help me lead teams and build positive relationships. These skills extend far beyond the classroom, supporting teamwork and problem solving in every aspect of my role. 

My story is not unique at Corporate Central. I often hear from colleagues who have brought skills from previous careers into their current roles, enriching the credit union with fresh perspectives and talents. 

Authentic Engagement: Sales Experience Inspires Member Care
Sam Boore, Director of Operations at InterLutions, Former Automotive Sales Representative 
Sam’s journey from car sales to insurance shows how foundational sales skills translate across industries. Selling cars taught Sam to build instant rapport and connect authentically. The “Feature, Advantage, Benefit” approach he mastered makes insurance solutions easy to understand and relevant to each client. Sam’s ability to listen and communicate value supports member growth and organizational success. 

Detail-Oriented Leadership: From Auditing Cars to Managing Investments 
John Hickey, Vice President Investments, Former Wholesale Floor Plan Auditor 
John started out as a wholesale floor plan auditor in Chicago, developing a sharp eye for detail and a deep understanding of inventory and finances. Tracking VIN numbers and resolving discrepancies gave him a strong foundation in risk assessment and financial management. Today, John manages investments, deposits, and loans, applying his commitment to excellence and passion for supporting financial well-being. 

Building Community: Lessons from the Bowling Alley to Member Engagement 
Chelsea Menge, Relationship Development Manager, Former Bowling Alley Attendant 
Chelsea grew up in her parents’ bowling alley, learning the art of building genuine connections. Welcoming people from all walks of life, she absorbed the importance of inclusivity, attentive listening, and creating memorable experiences. These formative lessons help Chelsea engage with diverse groups, resolve conflicts with empathy, and celebrate each member’s unique story. 

Empathy at Work: Caring for Pets, Caring for Members 
Stephanie Schmidt, Vice President Member Services, Former Kennel Manager 
Stephanie began her career working in dog kennels, developing patience and curiosity, essential for understanding needs when communication isn’t straightforward. She learned to treat every pet with care and respect, and to take responsibility for their well-being. These skills now help Stephanie excel in the credit union industry, where empathy and diligence are vital for serving members. 

Trust and Reliability: Navigating Finance and Security with Heart 
Julie Woloszyn, Marketing Manager, Former Financial Aid Manager and Armored Car Employee 
Julie’s experience in financial aid and armored transport taught her reliability, organization, and trust-building. Helping students navigate important decisions and coordinating sensitive deliveries requires attention to detail and a people-first mindset. Julie brings these strengths to marketing, prioritizing member care and information security. 

Compassion in Numbers: Nursing Experience Shapes Financial Care 
Clare Krupar, Accounting and Office Assistant, Former Nurse 
Clare’s nursing background brings empathy, communication, and teamwork to her role. Working hands-on with individuals from diverse backgrounds, she developed the ability to guide, support, and connect with others. These qualities strengthen the sense of community within Corporate Central and enhance the member experience. 

Storytelling and Strategy: Communicating Value Across Industries 
Chuck Doherty, Executive Account Manager, Former Journalist 
Chuck’s journey began in journalism, where he learned to ask the right questions and communicate clearly. Public relations taught him to craft positive messages and handle sensitive situations with grace. As a product manager, Chuck developed strategic thinking and problem solving. Now, as an Executive Account Manager, he connects with people, listens actively, and fosters long-term partnerships. 

Relationship Focused: From Workshops to Strong Partnerships 
Greg Yoko, Relationship Development Manager, Former Publisher and Workshop Host 
Greg’s career spans publishing, education, sales, and coaching. Hosting workshops nationwide and publishing magazines in sustainable land development gave him a broad perspective. He developed empathy, relationship-building, and honesty, supporting authentic connections with members and colleagues. 

Creativity in Action: Transforming Lessons into Marketing Success 
Orianna Valentine, Marketing Strategist, Former Art Educator 
Orianna spent ten years teaching art in public schools, learning to plan ahead, paying attention to detail, and adapting quickly. Her ability to tailor lessons for different learning styles now helps her craft effective messaging for diverse audiences. The genuine connections she built with students inspires her collaboration with colleagues and support for members. 

Uncommon beginnings often lead to uncommon reunions or endings. Orianna and I once taught at the same school, sometimes crossing paths in the hallways, and now we work together again at Corporate Central. Our shared journey shows how unexpected connections can shape a team and inspire new ways to serve our members. 

Consider the Non-Traditional Candidate
In the credit union industry, hiring people with diverse backgrounds is truly invaluable. Every unique career path, whether in education, retail, hospitality, or other fields, brings a fresh set of skills and perspectives that enrich the workplace. These experiences foster empathy, adaptability, clear communication, and creative problem-solving, all of which are essential for serving members and building strong relationships. 

When credit unions welcome team members from varied professional journeys, they gain more than just technical expertise; they gain authentic connections, innovative ideas, and a culture of inclusivity. The stories throughout this article show how transferable skills from past roles become the secret ingredient for success. 

How Unique Journeys Strengthen Our Team
By embracing diverse backgrounds, credit unions create teams that are not only skilled but also compassionate, resilient, and ready to make a real difference for their members. It is this blend of experience and heart that helps credit unions thrive and makes every member feel truly valued. If you would like to discover more about our staff and the culture that drives Corporate Central, please visit our website at corpcu.com to explore the stories and values that set our team apart.