Women of Webster Five: Tracy

Webster Five is celebrating Women’s History Month by highlighting some of the incredible women who make up our bank! This week’s spotlight is Tracy in our Dudley Branch.

How did you get into the banking/finance industry?

After graduating high school, I went to school for computer programming, and I really didn’t like it.  I couldn’t see myself doing that for the rest of life, so I quit.  My father told me if I wasn’t going to school, I would need to get a full-time job or move out.  So, I applied for the one job that sounded interesting to me: Bank Teller at First Safety Fund.  That launched my career.

Why did you choose Webster Five?

I had gotten married and had 2 children, always working in a bank, tellering, supervising, encoding and settlement, and research working part time.  Prior to working at Webster Five, I was working later in the afternoon into the evening at Santander encoding.  I was ready to work during the day and applied for a part time job to Webster Five with Roger Simpson at the Main St. Office in Webster.  He hired me on the spot, and I started work in October 1994.

Why do you choose to stay in your field?

Banking has so many different opportunities to offer.  I have ventured into other areas; however, I always gravitated back to working in a branch.  Along my journey, I found the need for periodic changes to grow and challenge myself.  I’ve served as the “Head Teller” on the Main Street, Webster Branch, the Assistant Branch Manager in Dudley and Thompson Road, Webster.  I’m currently a Relationship Banker back in Dudley.  I’ve always loved my roles, primarily working with clients, and mentoring and training others.  That is where I truly found my niche.  As a long-time employee, I’ve been so very fortunate to have built such wonderful relationships with so many people, both co-workers and clients alike.  Customer service and training/mentoring employees is my greatest passion and joy at work.

What advice would you give to women looking to grow in their career or break into their desired field?

Two things:  Learn everything you can, even if it’s not in your field.  Knowledge is power!  Never be afraid of change, embrace it and run with it – everything always changes.