Six participants have graduated from First Interstate’s inaugural Credit Analyst Trainee Program and accepted full-time roles with the community bank.
George Forsmann, Nick Gilligan, Heath Kelso, Dane Lindsley, Matthew Lyon, and Liam Quigley completed the 10-month program in Boise. They will support teams in Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and First Interstate’s AgWest division.
First Interstate launched the Credit Analyst Trainee Program in September 2025 to develop professionals who can support the Bank’s commercial lending and credit risk functions.
The program introduced participants to risk assessment, commercial underwriting, portfolio management, regulatory compliance, and other core areas of credit analysis.
It also provided a foundation for several career paths within First Interstate.
“This class stood out from the very beginning,” said Steen Fredrickson, Credit Analyst Senior Manager. “Their curiosity, energy, and willingness to learn created a collaborative environment that strengthened both individual growth and team success.”
The trainees learned First Interstate’s core systems, policies, and procedures before applying their skills to increasingly complex business scenarios. They later underwrote credit requests that supported teams across the Bank.
Participants also worked with several groups within First Interstate’s Commercial and Credit Risk departments, including Credit Review, Special Assets Group, Ag Lending, and Commercial Production.
All six participants relocated to Boise to join the first cohort. The program accepted both internal and external candidates.
“Throughout the program, they demonstrated a deep commitment to developing their skills, supporting one another, and serving our clients with excellence,” Fredrickson said. “First Interstate is fortunate to have such talented individuals on our team. I am incredibly proud of what they have achieved and excited to see the impact they will make as their careers continue to grow.”
Although the first cohort consisted mostly of recent undergraduate or graduate school graduates, the program can also support current employees pursuing career growth, professionals joining First Interstate from other financial institutions, and employees completing the Bank’s Management Trainee Program.
Competitive applicants typically have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, or a related business field. Successful participants must demonstrate an interest in credit analysis and a commitment to relationship banking that meets clients where they are and helps them get where they want to be.
First Interstate expects to open applications for its second Credit Analyst Trainee Program cohort in early 2027. The program is expected to begin in late spring, near the end of the academic year.
“If you're looking to join a company that puts its people first, is committed to supporting the communities we serve, and wants to help you grow your credit analysis skills, this program is a great fit,” said Fredrickson. “First Interstate invests in employee development and offers opportunities you can be proud to be a part of.”
Candidates interested in the Credit Analyst Trainee Program and other career opportunities can explore current openings at firstinterstate.com/careers
