We’re honored to have some of the best and brightest in the financial industry serving our members. Being able to hire and grow excellent talent is key to providing excellent member service. Recently, two of our staff members were honored by the Wichita Business Journal as leaders in the financial industry.
Sara Bass, Vice President of Business Relationships, and Angie Mielke, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, were recently chosen as part of the Wichita Business Journal's Women Who Lead in Financial Services. This is part of a series to recognize women at the forefront of their chosen industries. Nominations for the award are made by the public.
Bass and Mielke were profiled by the Wichita Business Journal as part of the special publication that appeared in the August 30, 2024, edition. Here are excerpts from that publication.
Sara Bass
Sara BassWhat has been your career path?
I’d say my career path has had some plot twists. Prior to finding my calling in finance, I spent 17 years in the publishing industry. During that time, I went back to school and earned my degree in registered nursing – a story in itself. I’ve maintained my nursing license but have since completed my MBA in finance at Fort Hays State University. Now I blend my diverse experiences into a unique professional journey. There’s no place I’d rather be than working in treasury management.
Who are your mentors and how have they influenced your career?
I’ve been fortunate to have mentors from many different types of professional backgrounds, all with unique career trajectories. The biggest influence they’ve had on my career was the encouragement to continue my education and the boost in confidence to actually get it done. Having an outside perspective is priceless and has helped me not get “stuck” in any one particular way of thinking.
Best advice for a woman wanting to enter your field?
Be the first to step up and tackle the projects or tasks that no one else is willing to do. Embrace these opportunities to learn new skills and become the subject matter expert. Mastery builds confidence and significantly contributes to professional growth. Build a network of people around you that you trust to give you honest feedback, and most importantly, remain open to their feedback. Also, discard any feelings of imposter syndrome — own your strengths and stay poised in your abilities
Angie Mielke
Angie MielkeWhat has been your career path?
My journey at Heartland Credit Union began in 2000 when I joined as a member service representative and quickly advanced to debit card coordinator. Over the years, I embraced various roles, each offering unique challenges and opportunities for growth. By 2017, I served as the AVP of Technology, managing IT operations and technology projects. In 2019, I was promoted to the role of VP of Strategic Initiatives. This position allows me to collaborate closely with our executive team, driving major projects that align with our long-term strategies and initiatives. Outside of my work at HCU, I spent a decade as an adjunct faculty member at Hutchinson Community College, teaching CompTIA A+ certification courses and Micro Apps online classes.
Who are your mentors and how have they influenced your career?
Zack Clobes, my mentor throughout most of my career at HCU, has been instrumental in my growth in technology. Along with his guidance, I have a strong network of outside influencers, my husband, family, and a support system, all of which have significantly contributed to my professional development.
Best advice for a woman wanting to enter your field?
Embrace opportunities, invest effort, and cultivate strength and self-awareness to make a significant impact in the financial services industry. Success comes from seizing opportunities, working diligently, and confidently navigating challenges. By leading with resilience and a clear vision, women in finance can inspire and lead effectively.
