In 2020, as the world faced uncertainty, job loss, and economic instability, Stephanie Summers made a decision that would change her life: she chose to invest in herself.

With a background in retail and customer service, Stephanie had the drive to succeed but no clear path forward. Like so many others, she was searching for stability, opportunity, and something more. That search led her to BankWork$®, a tuition-free career training program offered through Career Path Services. Stephanie discovered an opportunity to build a new future.

The journey was not without challenges. Navigating hybrid learning, limited class capacity, and a long commute would have been enough to discourage many. But Stephanie stayed the course. She showed up, put in the work, and began to build confidence in herself and her abilities.

Through BankWork$®, Stephanie gained both technical knowledge and confidence in her ability to succeed in a professional environment. A career in financial services was no longer out of reach. It was possible.

And soon, it became real.

In 2021, during the program’s hiring event, an employer partner recognized the readiness, professionalism, and potential Stephanie brought into the interview room and made the decision to hire her, opening the door to a new career opportunity in financial services. For Stephanie, that moment was more than a job offer. It was a turning point.

Stepping into the financial services industry for the first time was intimidating, and the challenges became real very quickly. Around her 90-day milestone, Stephanie experienced two bank robberies at her branch within the span of a week. The experience shook her confidence and left her questioning whether she was strong enough to continue in the industry she had worked so hard to enter.

But with the support of her colleagues and encouragement from her BankWork$® mentors, Stephanie found the strength to keep going. What could have ended her journey instead became part of what shaped it. Through perseverance, she discovered a resilience she did not know she had.

With each challenge, her confidence grew. What started as a first step became a career.

Today, Stephanie works as a Member Service Representative at a local credit union, supporting members in a specialized commercial banking environment. Her progression from retail banking into commercial finance reflects not only professional growth, but personal transformation.

Now, five years into her journey, Stephanie is paying it forward. In 2026, she returned to speak with BankWork$® graduating students and program supporters, sharing her story with honesty and encouragement. Her message was simple but powerful: progress takes time, persistence matters, and the foundation they are building today can carry them further than they imagine.

Stephanie’s story reflects the impact of access, support, and persistence. Through CareerWork$ and BankWork$®, participants gain industry-aligned training, professional confidence, and opportunities that can lead to lasting careers and long-term growth.