Allison Feldbruegge, Waunakee Community Bank
IB’s Professional of the Week is the premier way to meet Dane County’s professionals. This week features Allison Feldbruegge, AVP relationship development officer, Waunakee Community Bank.
What are the most challenging and rewarding aspects of your job and why?
The most challenging is not being able to help someone when I’ve exhausted all avenues for him or her. What’s rewarding is I love meeting new people and finding out what they do! It’s so interesting to me to discover why people got into business and how they are following their dreams and passions. I also enjoy helping people by making their dreams come true and discovering they can afford that house that they never thought they could, or saving for that big-ticket item they really want.
Who do you look up to or admire in business and why?
As soon as I met Jen Rudis, owner and founder of Jenerate Wellness in Waunakee, I was drawn to her. Jen has a very inspiring personality and people are instantly intrigued by her. Jen came from working in corporate America and left to start her own business. I admire how she took a chance on life, bettered herself and her wellbeing, and made a successful and growing business for herself. I enjoy going to Jen for guidance on my personal life and professional life.
What has been the high point of your career so far?
Opening a successful bank in Waunakee! It was such an honor to come and work for Waunakee Community Bank and I’m grateful for every day that I’m here. I’ve never worked for an employer who cared so much about its employees at work and outside of work. The bank really allows me to be me and has given me the opportunity to create a business culture as if this was my own personal business that I was running.
Thinking back on your career, what advice would you give your 21-year-old self?
Go for it! Take chances, throw your hat in the ring, and don’t be scared by people turning you down. You will get more noes than yeses, but those yeses will lead to great things for yourself. Always stay positive and humble, but know your worth. You can do this, you will be successful, try not to stress too much, and just have fun! Life is too short to go to work and hate your job, so find something you love.
(Continued)
What would you say are the best things about living and working in Dane County?
I love the people, the culture, and things to do. I grew up in Waunakee, went to college in Madison, and live in Deerfield — I’ve never left for a reason! I love going to the farmers market in the summer, Comedy Club on State on Friday nights, and being able to spend time with my best friend Lauren hitting up any outdoor concerts that are happening in the downtown/Atwood areas.
Do you have any secret talents or abilities that people would be surprised to discover?
I can make a three-leaf clover with my tongue. I always wish I could have been great at something but once people stated leaving the bar when I sang karaoke, I gave up on my pop star career. My eight-year-old self would be so disappointed!
What are your guilty pleasures?
I love hitting the open road on my Can-Am Spyder! This is a motorcycle with three wheels — two in the front and one on the back. Most people don’t know you can do a full grocery shopping trip on this bike! I also enjoy going to the movies by myself, sitting in the back, ordering a glass of wine, and being able to enjoy some me time.
Click here to sign up for the free IB ezine — your twice-weekly resource for local business news, analysis, voices, and the names you need to know. If you are not already a subscriber to In Business magazine, be sure to sign up for our monthly print edition here.
