Intern impact

By Olivia Hendrix
OBA Communications Assistant

Bankers understand the value in long-term investments.

For the Oklahoma banking community, that investment isn’t always just financial – it’s personal.

It’s why banks across the state continue to participate in the Oklahoma Bankers Association’s Summer Intern Program, one of the association’s most established initiatives. The program invests in the success of emerging bankers, their institutions and the future of our industry.

It’s a program that truly benefits everyone.

“These students come in with a fresh set of eyes. They notice things our banks might overlook,” said Janis Reeser, executive vice president/director of education at the OBA. “It also gives banks a chance to meet students who could one day become part of their team.”

For over 40 years, the intern program has helped turn internships into long-term careers. It has been part of defining moments for students when they decide if banking is the path for them.

There’s no better example of this than Jerika Coffman. Coffman went through the program in 2009 and has since skyrocketed into the executive world of banking.

“I appreciated how the internship used a rotation process where I could see all the different areas within the bank,” Coffman said. “Commercial banking wasn’t really talked about at school, so coming into the program opened up an unknown side of banking that I ended up loving.”

“Everyone was so engaged with the program. I wasn’t just doing busy work or menial tasks to get me through my day. I got to join calls with customers or meet them in person – it made me feel like I was truly a part of the bank.”

It’s the kind of hands-on exposure that doesn’t just help students – it benefits banks, too.

Many participating banks quickly realize just how much their own team can learn from the interns. These students bring in unique skill sets and a natural comfort with technology that could help modernize banks’ operations, for example.

In many ways, it’s an investment into a new generation of skilled, adaptable bankers.

“We’re bridging the gap between students and experienced bankers,” Reeser said. “Banks need new talent, and students get that unique, community banking experience.”
While interning at community banks, students get to take on many different roles, something they otherwise wouldn’t experience at larger banks or firms. They can work in each department and gain a better understanding of the industry as a whole.

“One day you’re helping a loan customer, another day you’re helping someone cash a check – then you might be out doing a cattle inspection. It really is such a well-rounded experience,” Reeser said.
The OBA Intern Program has launched countless young professionals into the spotlight of Oklahoma banking. Like Coffman, many interns remain well-connected with their bank and have a lifelong network.

Not long after completing her internship at Quail Creek Bank, Coffman accepted a full-time position. In January, she’ll mark 15 years with the bank, where she now serves as senior vice president and chief credit officer.

Her success is proof of how successful this program is for aspiring bankers – and even those who choose not to pursue a career in banking. The real-world experience students receive from industry professionals is something you just can’t find in the classroom.

“Even if a student decides after the internship that banking isn’t for them, they’ll always be a better banking consumer. They see how connected banks are in our communities and find a special appreciation for them,” Reeser said.

Students and banks across Oklahoma have experienced the value of this program firsthand – now it’s your bank’s turn. Register for the OBA Summer Intern Program and see how your bank can shape the next generation of bankers.

For additional information about how your bank can participate in the program, contact Janis Reeser at the OBA.