None of what we do would be possible without our people. Real people, connected by our shared purpose, offering real advice to our members. Working together for a better today, and a better tomorrow. That’s why keeping our employees happy, motivated and fulfilled is of the utmost importance to us. We believe that work-life balance, building a career, and building a better life for our employees and their families shouldn’t be a dream.
In this employee stories blog series, we sit down with five team members and ask them about their experience working at Coast Capital and how it’s impacted their career and personal journeys. This is Jot’s story.
Tell us about yourself.
I grew up in India and came to Canada with my family when I was 12 years old. We moved to Kelowna, British Columbia and have been here ever since. I love Kelowna.
Growing up, it took time to make friends and have conversations in English. I learned English in India, but I never really spoke it. I got more comfortable speaking and connecting to others in English by about grade 8. In the meantime, I stayed connected to my friends in India regularly chatting on the phone or via social media.
How have your experiences prepared you for your role at Coast Capital?
Well, I’m still in school. I’m in my fourth year of an honours program working towards a Bachelor’s degree (BA) in Finance with a minor in Communications at Okanagan College. After my BA, I plan to pursue a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation which requires 3,000 hours of finance experience.
At the end of my second year of university, I started to look around for opportunities to work in a financial institution and fulfill this CFA work requirement. I applied at many banks and received a couple offers. But I really loved the welcoming environment at Coast Capital and joined here about nine months ago.
Who are your mentors and/or role models?
My grandma. She worked so hard to provide for my dad and his four siblings. Her husband passed away when he was just 50 years old. She lives with us now and tells me lots of stories about how she struggled. She’s also embracing her new life in Canada. She reminds me all the time that when things get in our way, we must work hard to overcome them.
Tell us about your career journey at Coast Capital.
I was hired as a Member Banking Specialist about nine months ago. Coast Capital offered me the flexibility of a part-time role so I could still attend school. Right now, I’m helping members with their personal banking needs and pursuing my license so I can also provide investment advice.
Coast Capital is committed to building better futures. How is Coast Capital helping you build your better future?
When I first started looking for a part-time job, I wanted something that would get me to graduation. But after being with Coast Capital, my plans have changed. I want to stay with Coast Capital. I love the environment here, the opportunities for growth, the flexibility to pursue my studies and I hope to one day work my way up in the organization. Like I said, everyone here is so supportive. I’ve even had colleagues say they will connect me to opportunities in other areas of the credit union.
How does Coast Capital support your work/life harmony?
I’ve had many jobs over the years including in roofing and sales. I’ve never had such supportive management and the work environment here is so great. Everyone is willing to step in, answer questions and help. For the past few months, I’ve had finals and had to take time off to study. My manager gives me the flexibility to pursue my studies and even reminds me that my studies come first right now.
What do you like most about working at Coast Capital?
I like the work environment and how everyone is willing to support one another. My colleagues go out of their way to provide a healthy and balanced work environment at Coast Capital.
