Education & Training

Thinking outside the box isn’t only a job for the C-suite. Employees at all levels can—and should—contribute to innovation at their community banks. Here are some ideas from your peers about how to make it happen.

Susan McLaughlin is assistant vice president, auditor and financial reporting analyst at Merchants National Bank in Logan, Ohio. As a certified community bank internal auditor (CCBIA), McLaughlin shares how internal auditors play a vital role in community banking.

High school financial literacy courses are an opportunity for community banks to set local youth up for success. See how some community banks are making a difference in financial education today.

ICBA’s ThinkTECH Accelerator readies participating companies that have early-stage solutions and helps them tailor their products for community banks.

ICBA offers a comprehensive suite of resources designed to equip professionals with the tools and knowledge to thrive in our industry.

Michael Hoehn, assistant compliance officer and CRA officer at First Metro Bank in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, shares how he navigates regulations and ensures compliance using his expertise and certifications.

ICBA Community gives more than 5,000 bankers space to band together on the industry’s hot topics and issues. Its 14 groups—with others to come—focus on regulation, bank size, personal development and more.

The Independent Community Bankers of Colorado’s leadership initiatives empower professionals to lead with purpose, capped by the ICBA LEAD FWD Summit.

In February 2025, ICBA welcomed Peter Nelson as senior EVP of member engagement. As a long-time community banker, Nelson brings with him a history of robust involvement with ICBA. Here’s a look at what he brings to the table in his new position and a peek at his goals for 2025 and beyond.