Kellen: Banking and the Value of Adaptability
Erica Kellen, retail and mortgage loan assistant at American Bank, has learned the importance of adaptability, saying she didn’t expect a career in banking. She is proud of the processes she’s streamlined for her bank, which have helped shift more focus onto customers and away from repetitive administrative tasks. Kellen has found fulfillment in a career in banking because it combines “financial expertise with real human impact.”
Kellen said getting involved with the IBA has allowed her to bring ideas, insights and inspiration back to her own bank. She emphasized her belief that success comes from the ability to adapt in the face of change. When she’s not working, she enjoys spending time with her husband and three children, staying active, reading and journaling.
When looking back on your banking career, what achievement are you most proud of and why?
When I look back on my banking career, one of the achievements I’m most proud of is the way I’ve been able to refine and streamline key processes to improve efficiency and effectiveness across the board.
One example I take pride in is the way we transformed our preparation and review process for the Executive Loan Committee Meetings. By collaborating closely with our IT team, we implemented an app that streamlined data sharing and made it easier for committee members to review materials and cast their votes—significantly improving turnaround time and reducing manual work.
I also led the transition of our denials review process to a fully paperless system, which not only saved physical space, but also eliminated the inefficiencies of passing around paperwork. In addition, I helped automate collateral loan to value tracking for PMI and past due reporting, freeing up valuable staff time and ensuring better accuracy.
These improvements have allowed our team to focus more on our customers and less on repetitive administrative tasks. Looking back and being able to say, “I helped make that happen,” is incredibly rewarding. It’s a reminder of how leveraging technology the right way can make a real difference—not just for the team, but for the people we serve.
What piece of advice would you give to your past self or to anyone considering a career in banking?
If I could give one piece of advice to my past self or to anyone considering a career in banking it would be this: be ready to adapt.
Banking is an ever-evolving industry. Whether it’s technology, regulations, customer expectations, or internal processes, staying flexible and open to learning is key to not only surviving but thriving in this environment.
Another important lesson is the value of collaboration. Every department within a bank plays a critical role, and it’s the collaboration between those departments that truly drives success. Building strong relationships both within your organization and with the community makes a lasting impact.
Finally, don’t underestimate the growth opportunities that exist within banking. From operations and lending to compliance and community outreach, there’s a wide range of paths to explore. Each one offers the chance to contribute meaningfully and grow professionally.
What is your best elevator pitch for why banking is a great career?
Banking is a great career because it combines financial expertise with real human impact. It’s a field where you can apply customer service, communication, financial literacy, technical skills—even industry-specific knowledge like agriculture or real estate—while helping individuals, families, and businesses thrive. If you’re looking for a career that lets you grow professionally and make a meaningful difference in your community, banking offers that and more.
How does getting involved with the Iowa Bankers Association help you and your bank?
Getting involved with the Iowa Bankers Association (IBA) has been incredibly valuable—for both me and my bank.
The IBA provides excellent resources for education and training, helping us stay current on industry trends, regulations, and best practices. Beyond that, it offers invaluable networking opportunities. Connecting with professionals from other banks has allowed me to learn how different institutions operate and hear real examples of what’s working well for others.
Through the IBA, I’ve gained insights, ideas, and inspiration that I’ve been able to bring back to my own work. It’s a resource that strengthens not just individuals, but the entire banking community in Iowa. I will be forever grateful of the relationships I’ve made through IBA.
When you’re not at work, what do you like to do most?
When I’m not at work, I love spending time with my family—my husband and our three kids. Whether we’re just hanging out or enjoying the outdoors, that time together is what I value most.
I’m happiest when I’m active, so I enjoy anything that gets my body moving—like yoga, walking, swimming, golfing, and biking. I also like to keep my mind engaged through reading, writing, and journaling. Staying balanced physically and mentally is important to me, and these activities help me recharge and stay grounded.
What is a quote or guiding principle you live by?
Heraclitus: “Change is the only constant.”
I’ve found this to be especially true in both life and in banking. Your ability to adapt to change often determines your success. You can either resist it and get stuck—or embrace it, learn from it, and grow. I’ve learned that choosing to flow with the current, rather than fight it, leads to more progress, resilience, and opportunity.