Baker Builds Trust and Long-Term Relationships
Courtney Baker, AVP/retail branch manager for Clear Lake Bank & Trust, took a chance and applied for a teller position after being encouraged by a friend. She said her prior experience as a waitress helped prepare her for a career in banking because of the customer service and multitasking skills she gained.
Baker has attended several IBA events and is looking forward to participating in the 2026 IBA Bank Leadership Institute class. When she isn’t working, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters, cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes and Indiana Fever, reading, making sourdough bread, and a good cup of coffee.
What drove you to choose a career in banking?
It was completely coincidental. I was 20 years old, looking for a more stable job because I was working random, part-time shifts in the local emergency department as a scribe. My friend suggested I come talk to her supervisor about a potential teller position that would be opening soon. I had no idea what being a teller even entailed, but I stopped in and had an informal interview on the spot. That was nearly 12 years ago. I was hired as a float teller and have since worked in various roles in retail banking. I have been in my current role as branch manager for three years.
Describe one life experience that taught you a lesson you apply to your banking career.
I was a waitress at a supper club for a few years before I joined the banking industry. Waitressing is great prep for a career in banking, even if it doesn’t seem obvious at first! It taught me basic customer service skills under pressure, multitasking, sales, and relationship building.
What is your best elevator pitch for why banking is a great career?
Banking is a great career because it combines stability with impact. Every day, I am able to help people make important financial decisions or guide them through unexpected challenges. If you want to grow your career, banking provides a clear path to do so. We’re not just working with money, we’re building trust and long-term relationships.
How does getting involved with the Iowa Bankers Association help you and your bank?
I have attended many IBA events including the Deposit Seminar, Next Gen Conference, and Consumer Lending School and am excited to take part in this years Leadership class over the next few months. These events are great for networking and getting insights into what is happening in our industry.
When you’re not at work, what do you like to do most?
My husband and I have two young daughters who keep us on our toes! I enjoy cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes and Indiana Fever. I also enjoy making sourdough bread, reading, and a good cup of coffee.
What is a quote or guiding principle you live by?
One guiding principle I live by is choosing progress over comfort. I try to push myself to grow even when it’s challenging or uncomfortable.