October 2021
In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, we would like to introduce you to several ESL employees who took the time to share thoughts about their unique career journey here at ESL. Their stories are an inspiration to us all, and we are proud of their accomplishments! Once you learn more about them, learn more about our continued commitment to creating and maintaining a diverse workplace that provides equitable growth opportunities for all employees.
Meet Evelyn Lopez, Sr. Business Loan Specialist
Why do you think it’s important for companies and their employees to recognize and celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month?
It is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate an entire culture by acknowledging everything from their food, to customs, history, and more. It is a chance to make us feel welcomed! Even though we may be far from the place we used to call home, we can now know this can also feel like home to us. It sends a message: We welcome you! We care! We are interested! Especially in the work place where we spend so much of our daily lives.
Tell us about your current role at ESL.
My role as a Senior Business Loan Specialist is not just to perform a series of daily tasks, but to analyze how in the end those daily tasks come together. The result benefits business members who now have the capability to purchase that much needed vehicle or to start a brand new business. From the moment I receive an application for a new loan, I start collaborating with the branches to gather all of the required information before loan documents can be prepared and the loan can be scheduled to close.
Most times I am working on several loans at a time, but the past year has been unique! We had the unprecedented task of working through thousands of SBA relief loans for small business owners in our community. What a great opportunity to assist our community in such a time of need! While some researched and learned the rules, others were ready to be the point of contact for the member. Others were ready to input the applications and then others prepared the documents while in the end others made sure these loans were in the system. What a demonstration of great team work! And on a smaller scale, that is what I do, put the care and attention to detail that each business requires to ensure that they have access to the funds needed in a timely manner and in the end a great member experience.
Everyone has their own unique career journey. Share something unique about your own career experiences.
This is my 18th year at ESL. I started my journey as an IT Help Desk representative for nine of those years, then I worked in the Mortgage Closing department and am now in the Business Banking Department. Each of these positions offered a great deal of learning experience, and I am so thankful to have experienced each one and to still continue to learn new things.
What has provided the best opportunities for career growth?
The best opportunities for career growth have not only come from training in a class room. I have also experienced great growth from those individuals that are willing to share their knowledge and skills on a daily basis. Those that are there to answer questions and have guided me patiently. Thank you!
"Whatever you find yourself doing, do it with all your might!"
What career advice would you offer to those starting out?
I would say: Whatever you find yourself doing, do it with all your might! When you are faithful in the little things, you will be entrusted with bigger ones. Every job will have its good moments and also difficult ones, but try and find the joy in it; it will certainly make your journey much more pleasant to go through! As a tip I would say, try and put yourself in your customer’s shoes: If you were the member, how would you like your experience to be?
Has ESL provided support to help you manage your career? Have you taken advantage of any of the learning & development options available to employees?
Yes, from the moment I started working at ESL I have been offered training opportunities, not only within the walls of ESL, but training opportunities that have allowed me to travel and interact with others with roles similar to mine. It has given me a chance to exchange ideas and knowledge about what we do and the different ways we each have to accomplish similar day to day tasks.
"I not only enjoy my job, but I also love the flexibility that ESL offers…"
What is your favorite part of working at ESL?
I not only enjoy my job, but I also love the flexibility that ESL offers, they do their best to take into account their employee’s voice and to promote a healthy work environment.
