CU Champion: American 1’s Jennifer Schuch Makes Life Uncomplicated for Members

American 1 Credit Union recently announced the internal promotion of Jennifer Schuch to IT Core Systems Manager. She started with American 1 in May of 2002 and has held multiple positions throughout her 20-year tenure.

Schuch first came to American 1 as a member, then started a career with the organization during college when a teller encouraged her to apply.

“The credit union quickly became my second family!” she said. “I have developed relationships with so many peers over the years and have had the opportunity to learn so much from them.”

She also held the position of Training Department Manager, giving her a strong sense of quality member service and a detailed understanding of member pain points.

“Working in many areas of the credit union, I have acquired knowledge and understanding of our member’s experience and expectations to help me apply that lens in each position I’ve worked in,” she continued.

In her new role as IT Core Systems Manager, Schuch is responsible for overseeing the operation and implementation of member systems, including online banking, and ensuring they offer a positive member experience. In addition, the IT Core Systems Manager works closely with the risk and compliance team to keep member information safe.

Schuch is looking forward to applying her experiences, as well as the credit union’s philosophies, to everyday products, “We strive to make every product and process uncomplicated for both our members and our staff.”

“I could not be more excited to help lead our core systems team,” she continued. “Even after working at American 1 for over 20 years, I am still impressed that our vision focuses heavily on the member experience. It’s my pleasure to make the products we offer more convenient and uncomplicated to support the credit union in building financial wellness in all the communities we serve.”

Schuch accepted her promotion in March of 2023 and reports to Nicole Patrick, Vice President of Risk and IT.

“Our members continually count on us to be their safe, trustworthy credit union of choice,” stated Nicole Patrick. “Jennifer has continually shown the best interest of our members by overseeing the implementation of the systems that highlight the top-notch products American 1 offers with the focus remaining on personal, everyday banking. We are excited to see her grow into her new role as our Core Systems Manager.”

Schuch said America 1 has encouraged her to push herself to reach her own potential.

“This has allowed me to maintain my loyalty because I truly believe in the principles of being Focused, Engaged, Trustworthy and Humbly Confident. Thus, I have maintained not just in my work but also in my personal life with my family,” she continued. “These are not just words to me — they are how I try to live my daily life and how I lead my team.”