Meet Mike Schommer, a Commercial Lender at Union Bank & Trust (ubt.com).
Tell us a little about your business. – I am a commercial lender with Union Bank & Trust here in Omaha. I focus on helping companies, business owners and entrepreneurs who generate $1 million to $25 million in revenue annually. My approach to business is simple: I’m a connector. I love forging connections and building networks that lead to beneficial outcomes. Fostering trust and guiding clients toward the right solutions for their businesses are at the core of what I do. It’s so fulfilling to play a part in helping our clients chase their dreams and reach their goals.
How did you get started in the business? – I think most bankers get here by accident. I had a few service-industry jobs before I applied for a part-time teller position back in 1998. I wanted to gain some professional work experience. Here I am, almost 25 years later, still helping clients in the banking industry. I am thankful for all the great mentors I’ve had over the course of my career. These relationships have opened doors that otherwise might not have been opened.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – I grew up in consumer banking and managed teams for 20 years across several states. My goal had always been to move into a commercial lending role; that happened at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. I was transitioning to a new role, navigating how to work remotely and ended up going through two bank acquisitions in two years. It was a challenging stretch, but I learned so much over that time.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – I used to avoid the topic altogether, but going back and getting my college degree in my 40s has been my most important professional achievement. I earned my degree in business administration from Doane University; it has a great program for adult learners. I even stuck around and am now halfway through my MBA. I can find something in every course I took that helped me professionally.
Tell us a little about your family. – I moved back to Omaha after 10 years away in Nashville and Kansas City. I met my wife shortly after moving back. Together, we have four girls. The oldest is a sophomore at UNL. We have a senior and a sophomore in high school, and our youngest is a sixth grader. They keep us busy with sports and school activities.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – “Sunday Reset” is the most important part of my weekly routine. My wife and I have a list of things like household chores, meal planning/prep, and calendar syncing that ensures we have a successful week. Planning and prioritizing help us to stay focused in life.
Who inspires you? – Each of my parents has always served as an inspiration to me. My dad is a Vietnam Vet and was combat wounded in 1968. He recovered physically and worked hard to provide for his family. I can remember Dad receiving an award for not calling in sick for 25 years in a row! My mom was also a great role model for me and my siblings. She was passionate about her work and never met a stranger.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? – I know that every Nebraskan’s dad taught them how to grill the perfect steak, including mine. My dad handed down the best method and I will die on that hill!
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – Michael.schommer@ubt.com