The Oklahoma Bankers Association (OBA), with its motto “We Make Bankers Better,” provides a variety of resources, services and support to bankers across the state.
In collaboration with Francis Tuttle Technology Center's Workforce and Economic Development team, the OBA established the Emerging Leaders Academy in 2016. This program equips the next generation of banking leaders with the skills needed to advance in the industry.
“It’s to help bankers who want to take that next step in their career,” explained Megan McGuire, Vice President of Government Relations and Member Relations for the OBA. “By partnering with Francis Tuttle, we can focus on a spectrum of skills outside of banking that will help them be better bankers.”
The academy welcomes 30 bankers annually and features one session a month for six months. The 2023-2024 program includes sessions on communication styles, team building, personal branding, emotional intelligence, crucial conversations, and reducing stress and burnout. Participants graduate at the OBA’s convention in May.
Each year, the academy also holds a “Powerful Presentations” session where all participants give a six-minute presentation on a topic of their choice. This year’s topics ranged from smoking a brisket on a pellet smoker to the history of cocker spaniels and Taylor Swift.
Bankers from across the state, including those from Altus, Miami, Oklahoma City and Tulsa, participate in the academy. Planning for next year is underway, a collaborative process between McGuire and Francis Tuttle Consultant Molly Scalf and Trainer Tami Shaw.
“When you’re offering something like that to people, you’re showing that you’re investing in them,” McGuire stated. “When people feel empowered, they want to try harder and stick around, leading to loyalty. We’re all going to push the ball forward together, and training really pays off. You can feel that.”
Copyright © 2024 BridgeTower Media. All Rights Reserved.
Most Popular
Comments / 0