Midwest Bank has a long history of supporting the community and advocating for young professionals.
When the Growing Together Northeast Nebraska program was developed, we knew we wanted to be on board and support its initiative. Our team met the inaugural class at the first networking event, which included Caroline and Carissa.
“When I first met Caroline and Carissa, it was obvious they would be a good fit at Midwest Bank. Their professionalism and passion for their future caught our attention. Once we brought them onboard, it was clear their values aligned with the bank’s culture and people.”
Caroline Akinnigbagbe
Caroline started working at Midwest Bank as a part-time CSR in 2021 and then began her internship in the IT department in 2022. She continued her internship in the program and assisted the IT help desk.
Caroline chose her internship at Midwest Bank to understand IT at a financial institution better. She states, “I knew banks hold themselves to a high standard of security, and I was interested in getting a deeper understanding of IT in a financial institution.” She soon realized that the people she worked with at Midwest Bank were here to help her succeed. Caroline says, “My team is always ready to help me when I have questions, and I love how friendly everyone is when I help them resolve an issue.”
She also appreciates Midwest Bank’s culture. Caroline states, “I love the values at Midwest Bank, especially when it comes to community and integrity.” She hopes to contribute to the community as she transitions into her full-time position. She enjoys the events hosted by our team, especially the cornhole tournament.
Caroline is graduating from Wayne State College with a degree in Computer Science. She was recently honored with the Growing Together Career Scholars program Student Award. This award was given to students who were dedicated to working at one business during the program. She will also be graduating magna cum laude. After graduation, Caroline will transition into her full-time position as an Information Systems Technician.
Carissa Wacker
Carissa started as a part-time CSR at the Plainview branch in 2021 and began her internship 2 years later at the Admin Building in Norfolk. She chose to have her internship through Midwest Bank because she enjoys the culture and knew there was a perfect opportunity to gain more experience in private accounting.
When transitioning to the Norfolk location, she was worried that the culture would be different than what she experienced at the Plainview branch. She quickly realized that everyone in the Norfolk building was just as welcoming and kind. Carissa says, “I felt like everyone was cheering for me and wanted to make sure I had the best experience possible.” She also enjoys the fun we have at work. “I appreciate the breaks from our work to celebrate birthdays or do fun activities because it’s not something you experience at every workplace.”
She has trained in multiple departments through her internship, including Compliance, Accounting, Risk Management, and Credit. She has learned a lot during her time so far, but the overall themes that have resonated with her are to ask questions and always be open to learning.
After graduating from Wayne State College with a degree in Public Accounting, she will start her full-time position as a Credit Analyst. She was recognized at the Growing Together Career Scholars Senior Dinner with the John Dewey Award. This award was given to students who were outstanding in the program and maintained high scholastic standards. Carissa is also graduating with summa cum laude honors.
