Winter Helps Open Doors to Homeownership
Blake Winter, residential and consumer loan officer at Luana Savings Bank, said his career in banking was unexpected, but has been fulfilling because of the opportunity to contribute to his community. He is proud of helping low to moderate income borrowers obtain the dream of homeownership, saying they are often overlooked.
Winter said he “can’t stress enough” the value IBA courses have had on his career. He lives by the Latin phrase “Audentes fortuna iuvat,” which means “fortune favors the bold.” When he’s not working, Winter enjoys spending time on the Mississippi River and cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes in Kinnick Stadium with friends and family.
When looking back on your banking career, what achievement are you most proud of and why?
I haven’t been in banking all that long, less than 6 years in total. However, the achievement I am most proud of is helping low to moderate income borrowers obtain the dream of home ownership. These individuals can often be overlooked in our industry, and I am thankful to work at an institution that does not. We have some great assistance programs both at the local and state level. Accessing those for the benefit of my customers — who might otherwise not be able to afford a home — is what I am most proud of as a community banker.
What piece of advice would you give to your past self or to anyone considering a career in banking?
Based on my collegiate career, I would never have guessed that my future self would be a banker. To anyone considering banking as a career, don’t overlook it! There are endless possibilities; from lending to HR, compliance, IT, audit, etc. The opportunities and career paths are aplenty. Our industry is always morphing, so it keeps things fresh and never stale.
What is your best elevator pitch for why banking is a great career?
It might be cheesy or cliché to say, but it’s 100% true nonetheless. If you enjoy making a positive impact on your community and those that live within, then I can’t think of a better career than being a community banker.
How does getting involved with the Iowa Bankers Association help you and your bank?
I can’t stress enough the value that IBA courses have had on my early banking career. As someone that didn’t go to college with the intention of getting into this career, IBA training has been essential in getting me up to speed. Our bank also utilizes the vast network of resources from peer groups to guidance on compliance topics. The IBA is an essential resource!
When you’re not at work, what do you like to do most?
Living in northeast Iowa along the Mississippi River I love being on the water during the warmer months. In the fall, you can find me at Kinnick Stadium on Saturdays cheering on the Hawks with family and friends.
What is a quote or guiding principle you live by?
Audentes fortuna iuvat. Latin for “fortune favors the bold.”