By Jessica Wilson and Wendy McKune, Forum 2022 YP Crashers
Catalyst Corporate hosted four Young Professionals as “crashers” at their annual Economic & Payments Forum last month. The Young Professionals participated in an
application process and explained what would make them a great fit to be crashers at the event. Out of many applicants, Financial Risk Management Supervisor Jessica Wilson and Support Services Representative Wendy McKune from AltaOne FCU emerged as winners.
Wilson and McKune reflected on their overall experience as YP crashers, from their decision to apply to the insights they gained from the event. Here’s what they had to share:
The application process
“As I applied to attend Forum 2022 as a YP crasher, I had no idea what I was getting myself into. I’d never attended anything like this and didn’t know what to expect. I was worried I would be a little fish in a big sea if I was accepted,” Wilson said.
Initially, McKune felt her position at AltaOne FCU wouldn’t fit the mold of the other industry experts and C-suite professionals attending, but she saw great benefit in “viewing the credit union industry from a different perspective.”
Attending Forum 2022
“One of my concerns going into this event – surrounded by senior executives and board members – was that my supervisor title was going to feel small, but I was wrong,” Wilson said. She shared that many other attendees emphasized the importance of her role at events like this. “The experience of attending Forum put a new fire in me. I am excited to tell everyone about it, including my co-workers at AltaOne’s weekly CEO Chats meeting.”
McKune’s insights focused on how she better understands what goes into making a credit union function as a result of listening to Forum topics on geopolitics, rising interest rates, cyberthreats, competitors, the fintechs and more. “It was truly enlightening,” she said. McKune also voiced how she has a better grasp on why her position at AltaOne is so important and how every employee and member has a pertinent role.
“I learned a lot about myself as well,” McKune said. McKune thought the motivational speakers were fantastic. Amelia Rose Earhart resonated with her when she said to get comfortable with the things you fear most. “I am currently in Account Support but am transitioning into a new position as a Fraud Specialist, where I will eventually build my own department. I have to admit, I have been a little hesitant or scared at times, but this showed me I can do it,” McKune added.
“Princess Sarah Culberson’s session was also truly inspirational,” McKune continued. “She hit me hard when she said to ‘listen to understand, not to respond.’ I feel a lot of people listen for the wrong reason, including me, at times. She also spoke of being vulnerable.”
“Earhart’s and Culberson’s speeches really helped build me up,” McKune said, “and made me realize I can truly be my best me. I just have to put myself out there.”
Takeaways
Wilson expressed her desire to attend more crasher events to further experience being part of a community that focuses on credit union wellness, success and growth. “Everyone valued each of the crasher’s opinions, experience and advice,” she said. “The feeling of worth expressed by CEOs, CFOs, COOs and board members to the YPs for our input was immeasurable.”
McKune expressed gratitude for the opportunity she was given to attend Catalyst Corporate’s 2022 Economic & Payments Forum and can’t wait for her next chance to make a difference in the credit union industry.
“From the bottom of her heart,” Wilson emphasized what a spectacular, unforgettable experience it was. McKune and Wilson were both thankful for Catalyst Corporate giving young professionals this opportunity.