Hispanic Heritage Month with Renata Vargas Jaramillo: Relationship Banker at Amplify CU

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage month with us! We asked our Hispanic and Latino team members to reflect on their careers, accomplishments, and what Hispanic Heritage month means to them. Throughout September and October, we’ll be highlighting their answers on our blog and social media channels.

Renata Vargas Jaramillo has been with Amplify since February of 2022. Before joining the financial industry, she worked in the food service industry for 12 years, where she held almost every position—from being on the floor to managing to store opening and training. Renata worked hard to develop her strong leadership skills during her time in the food service industry, and she believes a great leader needs two strengths: the ability to see from a employee’s perspective, and the ability to listen to and understand employees’ needs.

She enjoys spending time with family and her three kids, two of which are busy twin one-year old girls. On her days off, she’s most likely to be found at an amusement park!

We asked Renata some questions surrounding her career and her thoughts on Hispanic Heritage Month.

Why did you choose your profession?

After working in the food industry for many years, I knew I needed a change. I’ve always been passionate about financials, so I knew this was it for me.

How did your passion for financials develop?

Even since I was a little girl, math was my favorite subject. Once I got into the restaurant industry and started managing, I started growing a passion for managing money and the behind the scenes of it all.

“My personal goal is to get a degree in accounting and explore more in the banking industry.”

My personal goal is to get a degree in accounting and explore more in the banking industry. I’ve learned so much here at Amplify, and I know there is still a lot more to learn, that’s what keeps me going and makes all my days interesting.

What do you love most about what you do?

It truly fills my heart being able to make an impact in someone’s life even if it means answering a simple question. I’ve been blessed with being bilingual in Spanish which has allowed me to help many of our members.

What’s your favorite Mexican restaurant in Austin?

I am a true Mexican, so I go for any good street tacos! El Pastor in central Austin is one of my favs.

What do you wish you could tell your younger self?

Step out of your comfort zone! It’s okay to feel uncomfortable.

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

Being bilingual open many doors in your career, don’t lose it if you have it. Always stay true to what you believe.

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

Being vulnerable is a great quality.

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?

It is a reminder of my roots and all the sacrifices my parents made to provide me with a better life. A month to appreciate all our people and all we do to provide for this country.

Supporting Our Team

Join us over the next few weeks as we continue to celebrate and highlight more of our team members. We invite you to listen, share, and support them!