Press Releases

News Release Date: Aug 14, 2023

Wildfire Credit Union is pleased to announce the addition of Laura Szpont as Vice President, Commercial Lender. Laura has over 20 years of experience in the banking industry.

Laura began her banking career at Independent Bank, working on small and middle market commercial loans. In 2004, Laura moved to Commercial Alliance and worked with leadership to create a commercial lending program for owner and affiliate credit unions in Michigan. Laura was COO/EVP of Commercial Alliance and was responsible for the credit department, documentation department, appraisal and construction departments and risk management areas. Laura received her Master's Degree in Finance with dual specialization in corporate finance and bank and financial institution management. In addition, she has received her certificate for planning and zoning in the State of Michigan and formerly served as Chairman of Sterling Heights Zoning Board of Appeals.

Tim Benecke, President and CEO commented, "We are excited to have Laura as part of our business services team. Laura is a great asset for our business members and Wildfire."

Szpont joins Andrea Hales, Chief Business Officer, Business Services, Darlene Krumpholz, Vice President, Treasury Services and Business Services Manager, Ann Ray, Assistant Vice President, Treasury Services, John Harken, Vice President, Commercial Lender, Michelle Vannest, Vice President, Commercial Lender, Angela Hine, Vice President, Commercial Lender, Susan Moody, Assistant Vice President, Business Development & Work Place Perks Specialist, Hillary Stockel, Vice President, Commercial Lender, and Jim Couture, Vice President, Commercial Lender as a member of the team. Laura will be serving Oakland, Macomb, and Wayne Counties.