EXECUTIVE PROFILE: STERLING NIELSEN

Quiet confidence. Words that appropriately describe both the state of Utah and Sterling Nielsen, Mountain America Credit Union's president and CEO. Utah is often unlikely to attract the national attention of some of its louder siblings like California and New York. Yet, during both the Great Recession of 2008 and the COVID-19 pandemic, Utah quietly moved forward with one of the country's most robust economies and best living standards. Sometimes a whisper carries farther than a scream.

Mountain America was born in the mid1930s in Salt Lake City, with the credit union philosophy of "People Helping People." Today, the credit union continues that mission by guiding individuals and business owners forward to achieve their financial dreams. The credit union also supports local communities in becoming better places to live and work.

Born and raised near San Francisco, California, Nielsen first came to Utah for college. After graduating with bachelor's and master's degrees from Brigham Young University, Nielsen quietly began his career with an international accounting firm here in Utah. His family decided to make this pretty, great state their permanent home. What hasn't been so quiet is Mountain America's growth and success. As one example, assets have grown an average of over 12% annually since Nielsen became president and CEO in 2008.

The values and social capital that attracted Nielsen to Mountain America make Utah a top state for doing business. In his book, "Bowling Alone," Robert D. Putnam defines social capital as the "social networks and the norms of reciprocity and trustworthiness that arise from them." One report rates Utah as the leader of the 12 states with the highest social capital. Utah is known for giving back and as a place where people help one another. AmeriCorps ranked Utah as the top state for volunteering.

According to Nielsen, Mountain America believes in hiring and retaining the best talent possible. Providing an environment that allows employees to grow, develop and give back to their local communities is vital. Utah's pool of top talent has contributed to Mountain America's growth over the years. In the past five years, Mountain America

“Mountain America believes in hiring and retaining the best talent possible. Providing an environment that allows employees to grow, develop and give back to their local communities is vital."

has added nearly 900 new jobs in Utah. The Mountain America Month of Caring, a program that provides employees with paid time off to serve, allows employees to connect with their local communities and experience what Utah is all about.

Utahns are resilient, hardworking and always willing to help, making the state one of the top three for small businesses. Recognizing the impact of small business on individuals and families, the Salt Lake Chamber jumped in to lead the state's efforts in helping small businesses navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. This commitment to helping individuals and small companies succeed has once again allowed Utah's economy to rebound quickly and experience one of the lowest unemployment rates. Sharing this same commitment, Mountain America helped more than 7,000 businesses get funding through the Paycheck Protection Program, allowing them to keep their doors open. To help individuals, Mountain America also launched several free financial education initiatives. Financial Guide personal coaching sessions, Guiding You Forward podcasts and regular free webinars for community members were part of last year's offerings.

Utah's entrepreneurial spirit mixed with a focus on family, wellness and giving back fosters healthy communities. Growing up in the Bay Area, Nielsen grew accustomed to and values diversity. He noted he's "Happy that Utah has become home for so many different people while remaining true to the values that have made it so attractive for decades." Over the years, Mountain America witnessed firsthand the concern for others Utahns demonstrate. Through the Pay it Forward program, Mountain America has recognized more than 500 individuals and non-profit organizations working tirelessly to help others. Each Utah Jazz season, hundreds of community members nominate deserving charities for the "Pass it Along" program. Mountain America is honored to support these charitable programs and many other community partnerships to help keep the spirit of Utah alive. From red rocks to mountain terrain, Utah provides a unique canvas of diverse entertainment and recreational options. From skiing to professional theatre and sports, there is something for everyone in Utah. "Whether you're indoorsy or outdoorsy, Utah has something for you," says Nielsen. Mountain America is honored to support a variety of local community partners, including the Mountain America Performing Arts Centre (the home of Hale Centre Theatre), Loveland Living Planet Aquarium, Hogle Zoo, Utah Jazz, Brigham Young University and Dixie State University.

"The economic strength and vibrant communities in Utah that allow individuals and families to flourish have also allowed Mountain America to experience tremendous growth," adds Nielsen. "While Mountain America has grown over the years and continues to grow, our commitment to helping people and improving the community is unwavering."