River City Six – Tyler Peterson

Meet Tyler Peterson, mortgage loan officer for West Gate Bank.

Tell us a little about your business.

West Gate Bank recently opened three branches in Omaha. The expansion into Omaha marked the first time in the bank’s 50-year history that a branch was opened outside of Lincoln. Our vision of servant leadership is based on a few main core values, including providing our customers the best banking products and customer service. My job as a mortgage loan officer is to build relationships with clients, realtors, and colleagues. I serve as a resource for them to find solutions that help them, and their clients succeed financially.

How did you get started in the business?

I always knew I wanted to be in the financial field at some level. I started researching potential companies and firms to get started with during college. After graduation, I was offered a position in personal finance lending. From there it grew into specifically focusing on mortgage finance. I’ve now been involved in mortgage finance for 15+ years!

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?

The decision to change employers. I’ve been lucky to work alongside some very talented people, with whom I’ve also become friends with. In my career, I’ve had to choose to change employers to find the best options for my clients, colleagues, and family. Making the choice to change was tough, but I feel very blessed to be at West Gate Bank where I’m confident in the wide array of options I can provide my clients.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

Every home closing where my clients are completely satisfied with their loan, the process, our interactions, etc. When a client or colleague trusts me and refers me to take care of their family and friends, I know I’m doing my job the right way.

Tell us a little about your family.

I have a beautiful wife and three daughters. My wife works in editing and my three girls go to Elkhorn Public Schools. We stay active with the kids’ activities—softball, basketball, dance, theatre, swimming. For fun we love to go camping. I am very blessed as a husband and father.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?

Nothing will compare to becoming a father. The changes to priorities and life goals, and the perspective about every decision your make completely changes. All for the better, of course, as I am so proud of my daughters!

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?

I enjoy golfing. Unfortunately, my skills/successes are completely ‘hit and miss.’ Literally.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?

I like to mow barefoot. My wife hates it, and it’s probably not the safest thing to do…I just like the way the grass feels under my feet. It brings me peace.

If you could have a super power, what would it be?

To be invisible.

What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?

Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). The lessons learned in sports and competition are extremely valuable in life, both personally and professionally.

What is your favorite TV show?

Seinfeld and The Office are two of my classic favorites.

What is your favorite local restaurant?

The Drover!

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?

Jesus Christ.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?

Phone: (402) 657-9849; Email: tpeterson@westgate.bank; Website: westgate.bank.