Lasack: Sowing Success in the Community
Joel Lasack, first vice president, ag lender at Maquoketa State Bank, knows the importance of strong relationships as a community banker. As a farmer himself, Lasack is proud of helping beginning farmers get their start or assisting family farms transition from one generation to the next. Ag lending has been one of the ways Lasack lives out a favorite guiding quote: “Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value.”
Lasack said the IBA has helped provide him with a network he can rely on when questions arise. When he’s not working, enjoys spending time with his wife and children and operating the grain and livestock farm with his brothers and father.
When looking back on your banking career, what achievement are you most proud of and why?
As an ag loan officer for more than 15 years, I am most proud of helping numerous borrowers continue to meet their goals – whether that be passing the farm to the next generation, or a beginning farmer realizing their dream of starting their own operation. It is rewarding to be seen as a partner in their operation.
What piece of advice would you give to your past self or to anyone considering a career in banking?
There are going to be times when you need to be a friend, counselor, community volunteer, etc. Prepare yourself for the “all other duties” you will be asked to perform outside the bank. Relationships are important as a community banker, so put in the time to cultivate them.
What is your best elevator pitch for why banking is a great career?
A career in banking can offer many different opportunities. There are many different areas that you can specialize in. You get to build your career around your interests, goals, and life experiences. Everyone needs financial assistance and guidance at some point in their life. As a community banker, you get to help people reach their goals. Whether you are the customer service representative that opens a kid’s first savings account, a mortgage lender that helps a young couple buy their first home, or an ag lender providing a loan to a beginning farmer to buy the family farm – you get to make a difference in your customer’s life.
How does getting involved with the Iowa Bankers Association help you and your bank?
Being involved with the IBA through schools, conferences, and the IBA Ag Committee has allowed me to network with fellow bankers and industry professionals. There have been many times when I’ve reached out to connections to get their opinion on a deal, or ask if they have ever had a similar deal. Along with networking opportunities, the IBA provides great resources for both new and experienced bankers. Take full advantage of the schools and conferences the IBA offers.
When you’re not at work, what do you like to do most?
When I’m not at work, I am spending time with my wife, Kellie and two kids, Milo and Ellie. We also operate a grain and livestock farm with my dad and two brothers. As an ag lender actively involved in a farming operation, it keeps me current on the production side of agriculture and gives me the opportunity to see first-hand the challenges ag borrowers are facing.
What is a quote or guiding principle you live by?
“Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value.” – Albert Einstein. If you can be of value to others, that will bring you success in both your career and in life.