Wingert: Banking With Curiosity and Connection
DJ Wingert believes having a sense of curiosity helps her better serve her clients and community in her role as commercial banker, AVP at Northwest Bank. She says one of the most fulfilling aspects of her work is creating connections and helping local business owners find creative solutions that help them succeed. Wingert enjoys the variety the banking industry brings and says that wearing many hats keeps her role exciting and rewarding. She and her husband had what she called a “humbling and unforgettable experience” when they spent five days off the grid in the Boundary Waters, where they lived off the food and supplies they could carry in. Wingert recharges by staying active, and enjoys walking her dog, playing pickleball and spending time with loved ones.
What’s something ABOUT YOUR ROLE PEOPLE MIGHT NOT EXPECT?
One of the biggest surprises is how little time I spend sitting at my desk. No two days are the same — I may be meeting with local business owners, serving on a board or committee, brainstorming ideas for an upcoming event, or coaching and supporting our team. Wearing many hats keeps my role exciting and rewarding. A key part of my work is looking for opportunities to connect local business owners with others who have faced similar challenges — sharing ideas and learning from each other. Creating those connections and helping others succeed is one of the most fulfilling and rewarding parts of what I do.
What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve ever received?
Never stop being curious. Asking questions and seeking to understand others, helps you better serve clients, colleagues, community, friends, and family.
If you could instantly become an expert in one thing, what would it be?
The ability to teleport — imagine wrapping up a work meeting and then instantly enjoying an evening on the beach in Bora Bora with no travel time!
what’s an interesting or lesser-known fact about you?
Last year, my husband and I spent five days off the grid in the Boundary Waters, living only on the food and supplies we could carry in. It was a humbling and unforgettable experience, where I enjoyed every second of it.
What do you do outside of work to recharge?
I enjoy staying active — whether that’s walking my dog, playing pickleball, or spending time with friends and family. My husband and I love a good adventure, but we also appreciate relaxing days at home.