Women’s History Month with Rachael Jaramillo: Branch Manager at Amplify CU

March is Women’s History Month, and we are celebrating! We asked women across our organization to reflect on their careers, accomplishments, and what Women’s History Month means to them. We’re publishing their answers on our blog and social media channels throughout the month of March.

Rachael Jaramillo has been with Amplify since 2015. With over two decades in customer service, her considerable experience is invaluable. From supervising teams at Home Depot to owning her own pet store, she has built her career around providing exceptional customer experiences. Rachael became a branch manager in 2019, and uses team-building and positive morale to develop those same customer service skills within her branch team.

We asked her some questions surrounding her career, experience at Amplify, and Women’s History Month. The following are her responses to these questions.

Service has always been my passion. ”

Why did you choose your profession?

I never thought I would end up where I am today. In my younger years, banking was always interesting to me, however I never pursued it until later in life when looking for my career. Service has always been my passion and in this profession, it gives me the opportunity to fill my cup everyday doing what I love.

What do you love most about what you do?

It’s hard to determine the thing that I love most, I thoroughly enjoy every aspect of it. I would say I love the people: our members and our team members. I love finding a way to connect with them, help them overcome challenges and being a resource and positive motivation to those around me.

I didn’t let that fear stand in the way. ”

What made you choose Amplify Credit Union?

I felt like I was taking a shot in the dark when I applied with Amplify with no previous financial institution experience. I didn’t let that fear stand in the way. I was looking for an organization where the schedule was feasible for my family and had work life balance. When I came across Amplify in a job posting, I was very interested as I had never heard of us before. After researching more about Amplify, I loved the culture that was visible on the website. When I came for the interview, the interactions with the people confirmed the culture, it felt like home from the moment I walked in. I am grateful that not only did I choose Amplify, Amplify chose me.

Tell us about a professional success here at Amplify that you’re proud of.

I am proud of my professional growth and journey with Amplify. I started as a teller with no previous financial institution experience. Within three years with determination, eagerness, perseverance and a positive attitude; I had the opportunity to work at three of our branches in different capacities which led me to my current leadership role of Branch Manager of our flagship branch.

What do you think is the key for success in a role like yours?

Be passionate!

Tell us about a woman you look up to and why.

I look up to Stacy Armijo, our Chief Experience Officer. I strive to be more like her every day! She has a positive impact on those around her, she is an amazing communicator, pure-hearted, fun-loving, and one of the strongest women I know. I am grateful our paths crossed.

Do you have a mentor?

I have had many mentors along my path. Some of them I had more interactions with than others. One thing that has helped me along the way is collecting “nuggets” from those around me to help me grow in different areas.

You are enough!”

What do you wish you could tell your younger self?

You are enough! Many times along my journey, I have doubted my capabilities; this hinders you from being the best you that you can be. Don’t let negative thoughts live rent-free in your mind, change your lens and find the good in every situation.

Any advice to young women who want to succeed in your field, industry, or just in general?

Whatever you do, love what you do! If you love what you do, you never have to work a day in your life!

What is the best career advice you’ve ever received?

Venture outside of your comfort zone, we grow the most when we are uncomfortable.

What does Women’s History Month mean to you?

Women’s History Month to me is a time to reflect and be grateful for the accomplishments of many women and celebrate those successes.

Supporting Our Team

We have something valuable to learn from every woman at Amplify. Women’s History Month is a chance to reflect on the many accomplishments of the women around us, but that celebration doesn’t end with March. We invite you to listen, share, and support the amazing women around you daily, taking time to recognize the people around you as they grow and change.