College Class Opens Bruck’s Eyes to Banking Career
While attending Iowa State University, Randy Bruck discovered the potential of a banking career while taking a banking course. “It was the first course that I truly enjoyed and worked harder on than the others,” he said. After speaking to his instructor, he was able to chart a career path in the banking industry. Soon after, he took a part-time teller position while finishing his degree in business finance.
Today, Bruck is assistant vice president ag/commercial loan officer and branch manager at Farmers Trust & Savings Bank in Woodbine. “Community banking provides endless opportunity,” he said.
How did you get into banking as a career?
While in college, I took a banking course and it was the first course that I truly enjoyed and worked harder on than the others. Curt Hoff was the instructor and helped advise me on a career path in banking. My career started as a part-time teller while studying at ISU, then landed a full-time position after graduation. Plus, as a child, who didn’t love going to the bank and getting free suckers and tootsie rolls? I scored the unlimited supply.
Prior to your current role, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had, and what lesson did it teach you that you still use today?
While working in high school, I worked retail at Pamida (sadly they have since closed and gone out of business). Within my first year, I was promoted to shift team leader, managing staff and closing the store. I quickly learned the best way to inspire a team is to lead by example and work side by side with them. What knowledge you have, share it with those around you because individual success leads to team success leads to company success; a goal everyone should attain before retirement.
What is your best elevator pitch for why banking is a great career?
Community banking provides endless opportunity. Having the opportunity to volunteer for community events, help someone in a tough situation, getting someone started with their own business venture, helping a farmer buy their first farm is a rewarding feeling. These are aspects that make a career fulfilling and something you can look back on knowing you made a difference.
How does getting involved with the Iowa Bankers Association help you and your bank?
The IBA is one of the most important resources I’ve had in my 12-year banking career. Banking continues to change with regulations and the IBA is one of the biggest educators and advocates to help inform those affected by the proposed changes. I’ve tapped into the knowledge of the IBA an average of five to seven times a year and always receive quick direct responses.
When you’re not at work, what do you like to do most?
I enjoy the outdoors to the fullest extent. I assist on the family farming operation, golf, kayak, camp and go horseback riding most weekends during the spring through fall.
What is a quote or guiding principle you live by?
“Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.”
— Thomas Edison