Justin Jahn
Senior Director of Informaton Technology, AEA Federal Credit Union
JUSTIN JAHN TAKES information technology to a new level for AEA Federal Credit Union.
As the senior IT director, Jahn said it’s satisfying to help businesses through his efforts at AEA.
“Information Technology is a force multiplier for businesses, and I find gratification in helping businesses serve their customers and solving rapidly changing and complex challenges. At AEA I’m not only able to realize this personal and professional growth but the work we do serves a key role in the community and I’m proud to be part of it!”
He has been a technology professional for 11 years, and notes he has had the privilege to experience all aspects of IT, from computer repair to network engineering and programming, culminating into his current role as a technology strategist.
He said his most memorable professional moment was a months-long project that showcased his team’s abilities and strengths.
“In the Credit Union world, core data processors serve as the foundational application used to house member data. It is a complex and tightly integrated application that connects to online banking, ATMs, card networks, and more. AEA elected to conduct a core conversion to a new application. Through this 10-month, highly focused project, I learned what our team was truly capable of and how much is possible if we move together as one. I’ll never forget how challenging the process was for everyone involved and yet we managed to have fun along the way,” Jahn said.
When it comes to advice for his fellow young professionals, Jahn said asking for feedback is critical.
“It is so vitally important to solicit feedback! I find it difficult to ask my colleagues for feedback- fearing the responses I get, yet I’ve always managed to learn and grow from it. We can get clouded by our own opinionsour own perspectives and sometimes it takes someone else’s perspective to really grow. Break through the apprehension and ask for feedback!”
TO SAY THAT Julie Koepp wears many hats as the Career Development Coordinator for Arizona Western College is an understatement.
“At the heart of all my responsibilities, my efforts are to serve students with support while they pursue academic and professional success. I meet with students one on one and in group settings to explore the academic programs at AWC that align with their interests and career goals. I also help oversee AWC’s online employment job board: Jobs 4 Matadors. In addition, I collaborate with internal and external partners to provide annual career related events, such as AWC’s Major Fair and Annual Student Etiquette Luncheon. Most recently, I have launched ‘Andale’s Apparel,’ a free clothing resource to provide students with professional attire to pursue opportunities like interviews, networking, and conferences with confidence. I oversee all operations and tracking responsibilities for the district wide program. I also teach a career exploration class for students who are still exploring their program options. Depending on the day, or what my students need, I gladly change my hats as needed to provide them with the best college experience. “
Koepp has worked at AWC for over 12 years. “Whenever others ask me what I love about my job my eyes light up. I love seeing the transformative growth that students go through as they emerge into the strong, educated, leaders of their lives. I love building and creating connections with students. I love when a meeting with a student is over and they are beaming an ear to ear smile and excited about their future. AWC’s mission is about transforming lives through education to create thriving communities, and I love and am humbled that I get to have a part in that by helping others.”
Koepp says her goal is to continue serving students and working with community partners to sustain and grow the success of our community.