What have you accomplished in your professional life/career since your 40 Under 40 selection?
At age 43, I became the youngest president/CEO of the State Bank of Cross Plains. The bank is over 110 years old and I am only the eighth president. We are the largest independently owned community bank in the greater Dane County area. As we successfully merged/acquired another bank in 2019, we now have 250 employees and 15 locations.
What accomplishments, milestones, or endeavors have you attained in your personal life since your 40 Under 40 selection?
I was honored to receive the In Business Executive of the Year Award (Medium Size Business) in 2017. I am also a proud husband and father of five children, which consist of two sets of twins.
If you were to “do it all over again,” what (if anything) would you do differently throughout your career?
Live for the moment I am/was in. Don’t be so anxious to get to the next “milestone” that I don’t enjoy the spot I am currently in.
How did your 40 Under 40 selection help your career?
My grandfather used to say, “The more people you know, the more business you will do.” My selection has definitely enhanced my networking capabilities and additional contacts.
What is something that you have a new passion for since the time of your induction — either professionally or personally?
Consistently surrounding myself with great people. Examples would be my bank’s board of directors, my senior management team, the nonprofits I am associated with, and the teams I coach.
Based on your experience, do you have any advice for today’s young professionals (under 40)?
As stated before, live in the moment, as well as look for the “doors” of opportunity and capitalize on your chances.
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