How A Credit Union Lender Turned A Conference Debut Into A Career Breakthrough

The market didn’t get easier last year, so we sharpened our approach. We invited mortgage loan officer Allie Hager to discuss a year of stretching her skills, finding her voice at ACUMA’s Make Your Mark Annual Conference in Denver, and transforming a 10-minute ACUMAx talk into a playbook for sustainable growth at a credit union. The big idea is bold and straightforward: grow where you’re rooted. Instead of chasing new logos or roles, Allie shows how to turn your current platform into a launchpad by doubling down on member trust, Realtor certainty, and workflows that make lending feel human again.

We walk through the realities of 2025 origination and the tactics that actually moved the needle: clean pre-approvals, proactive updates, and tech that removes friction without losing warmth. Allie shares her favorite moments from ACUMA’s Annual Conference, including unexpected connections. She also opens up about ACUMAx. The prep, the nerves, and the momentum it created for a longer talk that blends mindset with execution. Along the way, we delve into why credit unions are uniquely positioned to excel in fairness, transparency, and local market knowledge.

If you’re a credit union leader, lender, or marketer looking for practical ways to grow when refis are thin and buyers feel stuck, this conversation delivers: better Realtor partnerships, member-first communication, and data-driven insight that keeps you relevant. We close with what’s ahead for 2026 VIEWpoint Regional Summits, community experiences, and a renewed commitment to collaboration over competition. Tune in, take notes, and tell us how you’re growing where you’re rooted this year.

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