Proud of his teller skills, Sunward Intern Kevin Nuñez is a senior at Technology High School, where he participates in a job placement program with Future Focused Education, an Albuquerque based non-profit dedicated to placing students from challenged communities in meaningful jobs with quality employers.
Kevin works out of Sunward’s Tech Park branch, and is mentored by Branch Manager Mike Linton. When asked what he likes best about Mike, Kevin said with a smile, “What isn’t great about Mike? He’s funny, interesting, and pushes me to do my best in everything. He has taught me how to be professional and helped me mature and think differently about my future. He is always there to support me.” In fact, Kevin noted that the whole Tech Park team is there for him. Sharon Clark, Tech Park branch supervisor says teaching Kevin has been an amazing opportunity for everyone. “Kevin didn’t realize his potential contribution to others. When he first joined us, he was a very reserved young man. Now he is so full of potential and his confidence just shines!”
And, according to Sharon and Mike, Kevin is excellent at his job, kind and patient with members, and has developed a keen interest in banking. Kevin says, “I’ve learned how to get and sustain good credit as well as how to apply for a loan. I’ve been able to tell my family and friends about how all of this works and help them out.” In fact, Kevin gave a presentation at his school on how to get a loan, and what is required to qualify.
So, what’s next for Kevin? He says working at Sunward has opened him up to new ideas for his path after high school. “I thought I would be a mechanic, but now I think I’d like to work part-time at the Credit Union and attend CNM to pursue an accounting or business degree.” In the meantime, Kevin is looking forward to working toward a financial services representative position, and graduating from high school in May. Chances are good the whole Tech Park team will be there to cheer him on.
