More Than a Bank: Why We’re a Top Place to Work

We are thrilled and honored to share that NebraskaLand Bank is ranked seventh in the nation and proudly holds the title of the top-ranked Nebraska bank on American Banker’s list of the Best Banks to Work For. The ranking of Best Banks to Work For is based on an anonymous employee survey and a thorough review of the benefits and perks offered. This national recognition is a tremendous honor, and it speaks volumes about the heart of our organization: our people and the culture we’ve built together. This award reflects our team’s daily commitment to each other, our customers, and our communities.

For us, banking has always been about more than transactions. It’s about building relationships and fostering a supportive environment where everyone can thrive. This achievement validates our belief that when you invest in your people, they will in turn invest their best in the community. Let’s explore what makes NebraskaLand Bank a truly special place to work.

A Culture Built on People

What truly sets NebraskaLand Bank apart? According to our team, it’s a culture that feels like family. It’s a place where genuine care and support are not just encouraged but are woven into the fabric of our daily operations. Our employees consistently highlight the supportive, flexible, and empowering atmosphere that defines their experience here.

As Ashlee Strickland, our Electronic Banking Specialist, puts it, “The Culture is what truly sets NLB apart – Flexible, Supportive, & Full of Genuine People who care about doing what’s right for each other, our customers & our community!” This sentiment is a common thread. We believe that a positive work environment directly translates to better service and stronger community ties. It’s about creating a space where people feel valued, seen, and trusted.

This feeling of family extends to every interaction. “What I love about NebraskaLand Bank is the people,” says Heather Johnson, Loan Administrative Assistant. “Whether it’s a customer or a co-worker, the people who walk through NLB’s doors are more than just a face – they’re family.”

Support in Action

Our commitment to our employees goes beyond professional development. It’s about showing up for them when it matters most. Amber Kunz, a Senior Banker, shared a powerful story that illustrates this principle.

“What I truly love most about working at NLB is how we truly live our culture of being community-minded – not just in the communities we serve, but in how we support each other as employees,” Amber explains. “When my family recently experienced a loss, the bank was incredibly caring and flexible, and even honored my father-in-law in a very meaningful way. It’s a place where compassion and community aren’t just words – they’re action.”

These moments are what define us. We understand that our team members are whole people with lives outside of the bank, and we strive to provide the compassion and flexibility they need to navigate life’s challenges.

Growing Together: Opportunities for Professional Development

A great workplace not only supports its people but also helps them grow. We are deeply committed to providing opportunities for continuous learning and professional advancement. We encourage our team members to expand their skills, take on new challenges, and build a meaningful career right here at NebraskaLand Bank.

Santana Polanco, from our Cash Management team, shares her journey: “What I love about NLB is the opportunities the bank gives me to learn and grow every day. I came in with minimal banking experience and have expanded my knowledge tremendously over this last year.”

This commitment to growth is echoed by Kelsey Dailey, our Deposit Compliance Officer and Vendor Manager. “I have been fortunate enough to grow in a work culture that cares for its people as much as it cares for performance,” she says. “I have been encouraged to grow professionally, challenged, and supported. It is a place that I feel empowered, seen, and trusted. I love the work I do and the people that I get to do it with.” By investing in our team’s potential, we ensure that both our employees and our bank continue to get stronger.

More Than a Logo: A Commitment to Community

Our roots run deep in the communities we serve. This connection is a source of immense pride and a core part of our identity. It’s a spirit reminiscent of the historic North Platte Canteen, where our region came together to serve and support others with selfless generosity. That same community mindset drives us today.

We don’t just operate in our towns; we are an active part of them. Our employees are encouraged and empowered to get involved, volunteer their time, and make a tangible difference.

“What I love about NLB is the community involvement,” notes Brittney Detty from Loan Services. “We are encouraged to get out and get involved within the community and do what we can to help our community grow.”

This involvement is visible everywhere, from local events to partnerships with non-profit organizations. KyAnn Kreutzer, from our Finance department, feels this connection every day. “What I love about NLB is not only how dedicated we are to our employees, but our community as well. From grill events, to seeing our logo displayed across town, NLB takes pride in being a part of something bigger. It gives me a sense of pride to show up every day and be a part of such an awesome team.”

As Santana Polanco adds, “I also value how involved we are in our community, whether it’s volunteering or donating to local organizations, it’s truly rewarding to be part of something that makes a difference!”

A Heartfelt Thank You

Being named a Top 10 Best Bank to Work For is an achievement we share with every single person who makes NebraskaLand Bank what it is. To our incredible team: thank you. Your dedication, compassion, and enthusiasm are the reasons we have earned this honor. You bring our culture to life and make this a place where people genuinely love to work.

And to our communities: thank you for your partnership and trust. You inspire us to be better every day. We are proud to serve you and are more committed than ever to helping our communities prosper. This recognition strengthens our resolve to continue being a bank that puts people first, today and for years to come.

The full list of the 2025 Best Banks to Work For will be featured at Best Banks to Work For 2025: Less than $3B of assets | American Banker.