What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?

I can proudly say that I have contributed to helping serve more than 99 billion hamburgers by getting my start at my neighborhood McDonald’s. It taught me so much about this mysterious concept – FICA – and how it affected my take-home paycheck!

In all seriousness, it bolstered my people skills, and I discovered that many potential negative situations could be diffused with a smile or simply by treating the customer with respect.

What drew you to banking?

My first job in banking was a customer service position with National Bank of Detroit (NBD). I knew so many people who had little to no understanding of deposit accounts or lending options. Banking gave me the opportunity to help family and friends understand concepts like balancing monthly bank statements to explaining debt to income ratio. The banking industry was growing and exciting, so it was a natural draw.

What recent professional challenge taught you an important lesson, and how did you overcome it?

Today’s market is most challenging. Market volatility leads to uncertainty. We must find ways to remain active and viable in the industry by identifying and mitigating risks.

In your opinion, what is the most exciting trend or development in banking right now?

This may seem obvious from someone who works at First Internet Bank, but digital banking continues to deliver a more accessible way for individuals (especially those in underserved areas) to access financial services, where traditional brick-and-mortar banks may not be present. I’m old enough to remember when Check by Phone was the new technology, and now we deposit checks by phone or other devices. And that’s just the basics; wait until we see how artificial intelligence makes banking even more personalized for users! The possibilities are unlimited.

What advice would you give to someone just starting their career in banking?

Finance is ever-evolving. Keep up with trends and embrace growth and commit to never stop learning. Someone will always know more than you, so continue to listen. Stay true to who you are and keep your integrity.

If you weren’t a banker, what would you do for a living?

Music! Drumming is a passion, so I have to admit I still dream of being on stage or performing as a studio session musician. I love being part of the experience of someone hearing a song that changes, motivates or inspires their lives.

How do you define success?

It’s simple. Success is being in a position where my wife can retire early! Until then, I’m blessed and alive – that’s pretty successful in my book! My health is good, and I’m doing what I love.

What are you reading or listening to?

I perform music with my multicultural church, so I listen to everything. Currently, I’m listening to a lot of gospel music, from Maverick City and Elevation Worship to Charity Gayle.

Tell us about something on your bucket list.

I’ve been fortunate to do a lot of things and travel to a lot of places. My only bucket list item is health and happiness for myself and my family. I try to make a point to focus on my mental health, so I continually work to achieve total peace and serenity.

What’s your favorite memory?

Worshipping at church with my mom, who is now gone. She put me behind the drum kit and supported and encouraged me when I wasn’t very good.