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This is where friends of UECU share their lives and favorite tips*. We know that managing money better is important, but life is about more than just money. We're also part of many amazing communities, both geographical and vocational and they have great stories to tell too! We would love to hear your thoughts about our podcast episodes. Let's have a conversation! Check us out online: https://uecu.org/ or give us a call: 800.288.6423. Thanks for listening! *The information contained herein has been prepared for general informational purposes only. The presenters and preparers of this information are not licensed or certified financial advisors and do not have, and are not establishing, a fiduciary relationship with you. No copy or use of this presentation should occur without the permission of Utilities Employees Credit Union (UECU). UECU retains all intellectual property interests associated with this presentation. UECU makes no claim, promise, or guarantee of any kind about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the content of the presentation and expressly disclaims liability for errors and omissions in such content. Comments made by any host or presenter are their own and not necessarily those of UECU or UECU membership.
UECU plays an active role in keeping our members' information and accounts safe from troublemakers. Our dedicated staff works with great people from Alpine Cyber Solutions to make sure we head off trouble. But we can't do it alone.
Account owners have an important role to play, because safe and secure technology is just one piece of the cybersecurity puzzle. UECU consistently strives to improve and increase account security through ongoing testing, training and new technology. Unfortunately, all it takes is a shared password or personal information, outdated account owner contact information, or responding to a troublemaker's urgent and anxiety-inducing email, call or text message to break through the firewall; namely, the human one.
Today, we talk with Alpine Cyber Solutions President and Chief Technology Officer Steven Pressman and Alpine's Technical Business Analyst David Bock to understand the roles that both organizations and individuals play in keeping their information and their accounts safe. For both sides of that equation, the human firewall is the most important variable.
Learn how to become a great human firewall at work and at home. Our digital footprint is only getting bigger. Secure yours today.
(00:28) Today's topic is cybersecurity: how to keep your information and your accounts safe and secure
(01:06) Why do security breaches happen? 1) It's easy money, and 2) humans make mistakes.
(01:24) UECU works hard to protect our members' accounts and information, but individuals have an important role to play as well. It's a partnership.
(01:44) Cybersecurity facts to consider: the average cost of a data breach so far in 2023 is $4.45M; The financial industry has the second highest average cost of $5.9M; and the two most used methods to secure that information is phishing and stolen credentials.
(02:40) Meet our guests from Alpine Cyber Solutions: Technical Business Analyst David Bock, and President/Chief Technology Officer Steven Pressman. Learn how they made their way to their current career and what they like to do for fun.
(13:20) Topic discussion about Cybersecurity begins with an overview of how UECU, with help from Alpine, keeps on top of Cybersecurity.
(14:11) What is Vulnerability Management? It's not the plot to a Rom-Com!
(15:07) QUOTE "Literally everything that we're going to talk about what we do with the Credit Union, applies to everyone's personal life in some way, shape or form. There's nothing different that a company needs to do to protect data that a person doesn't need to do to protect their data." - Steve
(15:45) Vulnerabilities are something that are known (or unknown) to be wrong on a device, such as a flaw in a piece of software. We have to search for those that are known, and indicators of the unknown. In both cases, we then overcome them. Today, these scans are continuous.
(23:15) Penetration Testing is when we rely on trusted individuals/services to try to access our systems/information by either physically entering the building in an unofficial capacity, creating a relationship with an employee to gain needed information, or looking for known system vulnerabilities that haven't been patched yet to "get in."
(26:50) Many people think a hacker gets in by penetrating the system firewall. It very rarely works if the firewall is being kept up-to-date. It more often happens by getting through the "Squishy Parts" (the humans) as Steve refers to them.
(27:25) QUOTE "There's a term we like to use called the Human Firewall, where we train people to understand that they have a very active role in cybersecurity." - Dave
(27:36) Phishing and Social Engineering are attacks aimed at people (employees and individuals). People try to "fish" for information through various contact methods, perhaps providing a link that downloads malicious software, or a link that takes you to a look-alike website where you are asked to enter personal information.
(28:35) Services like Alpine make phone calls and send emails to employees to test our responses to phishing attempts. Dave says it's the worst part of his job when he gets someone to do something they shouldn't do.
(29:06) These attackers (and testers) prey on the inate nature of people who want to be helpful and who react too fast.
(31:00) Policies and Procedures are the most boring part of cybersecurity, but also the most important part of being prepared for a cyber attack. These define what the goal is regarding cybersecurity (what we actively do to protect) as well as outlinining how we'll respond to attacks. This makes it possible for us to practice and be prepared.
(35:35) QUOTE "There are times for creativity and invention. In a crisis is not that time." - Steve
(37:00) What is CISO as a service (Chief Information Security Officer)? All businesses need to be cybersafe. They run a company's securing program and measure it for success. Large businesses may hire their own internal CISO, but that doesn't mean medium and smaller businesses are exempt. Third party providers like Alpine can fill that role.
(42:50) Security Awareness Testing and Training is focused on strengthening the Human Firewall. It's one of the best things a company can do. Ongoing testing is needed to train people how to protect themselves and their access to information.
(45:53) QUOTE "What can people do to protect themselves? Sometimes it's just being uber-suspicious." -Janene
(46:06) QUOTE "You hate to say it, but you have to suspect everything." -Steve
(50:37) QUOTE "You have to have this "Batman-level" paranoia." -Dave
(50:47) Slow down when responding to calls and emails. We're so used to doing everying fast, fast, fast. It's worth the time needed to verify that the request you've received is legitimate. They often include legitimate information to gain your cooperation and trust.
(50:23) Incident Response: what to do when the attack gets through starts with knowing who to turn to for guidance.
(54:20) Successful Cybersecurity requires all of the following: Protect, Detect (scanning for issues), Identify what is yours (know where your "borders" are), Response & Recovery.
(56:10) Practicing incident response if very important because it helps everyone understand the risks and find and overcome challenges. And when a real challenge presents itself, they are ready to go.
(01:01:11) What can individuals do to protect themselves and their information?
(01:01:40) Social media, mobile apps and info-gathering. Those "Get to know you" question posts, or just general information you share (like your favorite pet's name) are often gleaned by others to create a list of answers to things like security questions.
(01:03:52) QUOTE "If you're using an app, or a platform, or a service that doesn't cost anything, you're paying with information." -Janene
(01:07:15) When considering new mobile apps to download, look at reviews (it should be generally good), how many people have downloaded it (it should be a lot), and consider if the permissions it is requesting are necessary for it to work properly.
(01:11:38) Passwords -make them challenging, and consider alternatives like using biometrics and authenticator apps. Consider a password manager.
(01:12:15) Authentication methods are replacing passwords, and this is a good thing. UECU's improved mobile and online banking systems offer this option now.
(01:14:12) Use a password manager for your whole family. Pay for it. It's worth it.
(01:15:00) QUOTE "Email is the worst insecure mechanism by which you can share something" referring to sharing passwords or information with those you trust. -Steve
(01:15:55) Use Multifactor Authentication whenever possible. Preferably one that notifies you in an app, not by text or email. Authentication apps like Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator or your Password Manager's authenticator add-on.
(01:17:18) Password Managers shared with family are also a valuable way to help after a family member passes away. Written password lists are a risk.
(01:20:23) UECU has a protocol to identify members when they call us. This may be an inconvenience, but it's important. We do it to protect our members.
(01:22:32) Lock your phone with a password, a code, face ID, fingerprint ID...something. An unlocked phone is a risk because texts, emails, access to accounts...it's all there. Protect it. Same thing goes for your smartwatch that's connected to your phone.
(01:23:43) Check to see if your email has been compromised: visit www.haveibeenpwned.com
(01:25:00) Change your email password frequently. It's one of the most important passwords you have. Most sites that allow you to reset your password with a link sent to your email. Protect it.
(01:29:30) Check for additional security features that may be included with services you are paying for, such as extra storage space you may already be buying from your phone manufacturer or service provider.
(01:30:15) QUOTE "In an airport, take a book" referring to the high risk of using free wifi options at airports or other places you visit. - Dave
(01:31:00) Sometimes the services you already have or are purchasing have great side benefits, such as ID theft protection and restoration services that come your UECU visa card and checking accounts. It's an investment is safety.
(01:32:05) Email safety - what can you do to protect yourself?
(01:36:14) Urgency in an email (phone or text) message is a red flag.
(01:36:54) QUOTE "Anything that comes in that's demanding that you do something right away, take action right away, is a huge red flag." -Dave
(01:37:18) QUOTE "If it smells wrong, it's wrong" in regards to emails or messages you receive. -Steve
(01:38:40) QUOTE "Don't click the link, go to the source" regarding links given in suspicious messages. -Janene
(01:39:10) Even if you get messages or calls from UECU or Utilities Employees Credit Union, it's okay to be suspicious. We never ask you to provide personal information that way. Reach out to us directly if you are concerned. We understand and appreciate that you are taking steps to stay safe.
(01:42:12) It's important to keep your contact information updated whereever you have accounts or do business with that has your personal information. If we're concerned about suspicious activity on your accounts, we need to be to contact you directly.
(01:43:38) We discuss links to great online resources provided by the US government www.cisa.gov, legitimate organizations like www.security.org, and here at uecu: www.uecu.org/fraudprevention. Links noted below.
(01:46:55) Final Words from Steve: Practice. You have to make cybersecurity an ongoing focus. Train that "muscle" so it grows. Make small changes all of the time. Be vigilant.
(01:48:55) Final Words from Dave: Take your time. Slow it down. Don't respond quickly. Think it through.
(01:26:40) Use your phone to set reminders to pay your bills on time. It's the biggest factor in having a good credit score. - Janene
(01:50:25) Save early, save often. If you have a 401K, max it out. -Steve
(01:51:25) Invest in companies that are doing good things (instead of just buying their product!)
It is part of UECU's employee experience all year long. While we support local organizations with our personal and corporate gifts, we also get to know the organizations we support and the people they serve by "getting out there."
It is one thing (and an important one!) to give financially to help further the work of important services and organizations in our community. It just means so much more when we join in the effort personally.
However, UECU's community goes far beyond just our geographical hometown. We are equally connected to the utility and energy industry nationwide. It is simply part of UECU's DNA and we look forward to opportunities to travel and participate in events where they gather and celebrate the work they do. We enjoy celebrating with them!
Today we talk with Dawn Pavlick and Kaitlin Keck, two UECU staff members who help lead our charge for giving and volunteering in our community and beyond. Press "play" and you'll see just how much "People Helping People" really means to us.
(0:37) Today’s discussion is out UECU’s commitment to our community, through direct employee involvement and support as well as the organization’s outreach and sponsorship of local and industry-related causes and events.
(1:10) Meet our guests, and Janene’s UECU co-workers: Dawn Pavlick, Loan Processing Manager & Co-Chair of the Employee Volunteer Program Committee, and Kaitlyn Keck, Business Development Specialist & Chair of our United Way Committee.
(2:18) The credit union industry’s collective philosophy is “People Helping People.”
(2:45) That philosophy was a natural outcome of the credit union industry’s creation to meet the post-depression-era need for personal and small business banking services left unmet during that tumultuous time.
(4:12) If the motto of the industry is “People Helping People,” then our goal is to do more than just offering banking services. We also want to make a difference.
(5:05) Get to know Kaitlin and Dawn, how they came to be part of the UECU team and the things that make them happy outside of the workday.
(8:30) UECU’s history of supporting our local United Way of Berks County.
(8:52) UECU has been financially supporting United Way since 1996, encouraging employees to help meet our community’s needs.
(10:23) Overview of United Way of Berks County: they support over 30 non-profit agencies that meet direct community needs. The majority of the work they do is managed by volunteers and is the direct result of community assessments, often responding to needs that arise quickly, like Covid’s affect on personal finances that increased needs for food and housing, and more.
(13:01) Another value of United Way is the opportunity to provide a credible option for general community giving, for those individuals who want to give but don’t know who to support.
(14:35) How does the UECU team support United Way specifically? 10 staff are currently on the United Way Committee. That’s 10% of UECU staff!
(15:20) UECU is currently in the top 50 United Way of Berks County Business Supporters (31st).
(15:50) The United Way committee at UECU holds monthly fundraisers and events to raise funds to put toward our annual campaign gift, and to provide ongoing awareness of United Way and the great work they do.
(18:00) Overview of our experiences during the annual fall United Way fundraising campaign, and how that’s not the beginning and the end of UECU’s work to support United Way.
(19:44) UECU as an organization supports and encourages UECU campaign giving with unique gifts that employees enjoy, such as give-a-day, get-a-day where UECU gives employees a day of PTO if they pledge an annual gift equal or more than a single day of pay…and so much more.
(21:23) The annual campaign raffle is one way that the organization, employees, and local businesses and partners help us say thanks to the employees who give to their United Way.
(22:30) The infamous pumpkin-roll and the frame-filled scratch-off lottery ticket raffle prizes are always the ones that garner top interest! Our United Way committee keeps it fun too.
(23:40) Our involvement with United Way also gave our staff the opportunity to get out in the community to volunteer. It isn’t just about raising funds. The annual Day of Caring always helps UECU staff get to know services in the community that United Way supports.
(24:16) QUOTE “UECU stands by the heart of serving and People Helping People” -Kaitlin
(24:38) This year, UECU’s staff is supporting two organizations on the September Day of Caring: New Journey Community Outreach (meeting community food and clothing needs, and supporting individuals with clothing needed for job interviews) and Opportunity House (provides homeless shelter, transitional housing, veterans support, childcare support to families and individuals in need).
(26:55) Volunteering in the community means so much, and the Day of Caring really helps give those opportunities to employees of companies involved in their annual fundraising campaign.
(27:14) QUOTE “There’s just something about setting foot inside, and seeing what’s going on. I can’t put a price tag on the value of that, of being part of it…seeing families that are changed and lives that are improved.” -Janene
(33:00) Dawn gives a quick history of our relatively new Employee Volunteer Program Committee, how it grew out of a leadership training program some of our staff have attended and it’s goal to help provide more opportunities for our staff to get out to serve hands-on in our community.
(34:20) QUOTE “You wanted to volunteer and I think a lot of people had that same feeling as I do, that you want to help, but you just don’t know where to go or have that chance.” -Dawn
(34:51) 12 UECU employees are currently part of the Employee Volunteer Program (EVP) Committee
(35:11) A quick overview of the Judge Bradley Leadership Training for credit union staff (now called CrossState Leadership School). Lisa Delucia and Greg Cosgrove, two members of our current staff, spearheaded the EVP committee as a result of that experience.
(36:24) Dawn co-chairs the EVP with co-worker Barb Musche today.
(37:18) UECU is always very supportive of our staff having the opportunity to volunteer even when it is during the work day. They also provide financial resources to buy needed supplies for these events.
(38:33) The list of volunteer opportunities that UECU staff has supported is long! Most recently, crafting cat toys for the Animal Rescue League of Berks County, picking potatoes with IHartHarvest that provides farm fresh produce to our local food pantry.
(41:33) The annual Big Cheese event organized by the United Way of Berks County is a large volunteer event in our community to assemble mac & cheese meals for families in our community with food insecurity.
(42:18) We support with volunteer hours through the year, many of the agencies that we give to United Way to help fund as more: Opportunity House, New Journey Community Outreach, Cups of Compassion (a holiday season community event created by caring individuals, not an organization), and more
(44:35) A very impactful organization for Dawn is Doug & Liz Graybill’s organization: Veterans Making a Difference who works with the Hope Rescue Mission to meet needs of veterans in our community
(45:40) and there’s more: community clean up along the Thun Trail, and newly organized by the EVP committee this year, UECU is organizing a week-long blood drive at Miller Keystone Blood Center in honor of International Credit Union Day!
(46:55) In addition to the individual efforts of our awesome employees, UECU also supports utility and energy industry-specific groups nationwide through event participation and sponsorship. Our community isn’t just at home…as we have members in all 50 states at linemen rodeos, expos, energy and utility associations.
(49:45) QUOTE “It’s just kind of a part of our DNA to support the utility and energy industry as a company.” -Janene
(50:05) We also do a bit of direct support to members and industry friends in a general “random acts of kindness” way too. Sponsoring a meal for crews on storm duty, snacks and thanks to workers we see nearby on sunny days, and more.
(50:58) We also work with other credit unions close to home to improve financial well-being in our community. This year, UECU’s own Erica Wennell is leading the charge as we organize Financial Reality Fairs in local high schools with our credit union partners.
(52:16) We also support local youth and important initiatives in various ways, from cheering on high school sports teams and athletes, to helping make fun events available for elementary school students and children with disabilities
(53:48) We support financial needs through various scholarships as well. We have our own scholarship contest for members nationwide and in PA, and we have supported local events that fund scholarships for others as well. For families in need, we also participate in holiday gift collections for a very long time. We’ve also provided event support for various groups raising awareness and funds for things like overcoming Alzheimer’s and bringing our community together to appreciate our varied cultural contributions, and more.
(56:18) Financial Tip time!
(1:00:25) Thanks to our guests Dawn and Kaitlin.
(1:00:38) It’s easy to find UECU and our podcast! Search your favorite podcast app for UECU, and drop by our social media profiles to let us know your thoughts on each episode topic! Links for our social media profiles and to all of the groups we’ve discussed today can be found in our show notes. We hope you’ll subscribe, share and come back for our next episode.
(56:34) Kaitlin: Save when you don’t know you need to.
(57:38) Dawn: Contribute to your 401K (or any retirement fund) as early as you can.
UECU’s commitment to the “People Helping People” philosophy: https://uecu.org/about-us/
Organizations UECU supports and would love to help you get to know:
PA/NJ Credit Union Leadership Training Program formerly known as “Judge Bradley”: https://www.crossstate.org/education-events/professional-development/crossstate-leadership-school/
But when you add last minute work “opportunities” that can be several states away from home for weeks at a time, that’s a whole ‘nother level, as they say. Today we talk with a member and friend who spends his days as an electric lineman. Herb Lovett loves his job, but he acknowledges that his mindset is always “family first.”
But he isn’t alone. His family is part of a very tight and supportive “linelife” family. They take their commitment to safety, to each other, and to their families very seriously…even as they enjoy the challenge and tomorrow-is-never-the-same-as-yesterday job that ranks as the third most dangerous in the US. Turning on the lights for a neighborhood or a town is a thrill and so are the new work “toys” that make their work safer, but getting home in the same condition they started the day is paramount.
Line workers are highly trained through apprenticeship programs (often at little or no cost) and they earn a good living (if you enjoy heights, working outdoors in all kinds of weather, and take safety seriously). Yet many people don’t know much about this fulfilling career, especially as many experienced workers are retiring at a fast pace. Herb is happy to change that, and encourages the next generation of line workers to be like him, but even better, in all aspects of the linelife.
(0:41) Today’s discussion will explore the life of an electric lineman through the eyes of one we know very well.
(0:50) Recap of our interview with Rae Johnson, President of NSUJL, and an update on her and her husband Tom, an electric lineman facing recovery from an injury. They are in our thoughts and we are pulling for them alongside their friends and peers nationwide. (see links below for ways to show them your support)
(2:20) Electric Lineman: 42/100,000 lost on the job each year, 2,400 injuries: 3rd most dangerous job
(3:25) Meet Herb Lovett, Electric Lineman
(3:53) Herb just spent some time with Rae and Tom at NSUJL’s annual rodeo and Climbing for Lost Lineman event, and shared links to help meet their needs during this difficult time. (see links list)
(5:50) How did Herb even find this line of work? He always new he wanted to work outside, and tried a few different options before finding linework.
(6:39) He learned about the profession while doing roof work, and having conversations with a line worker who was a neighbor of a friend.
(7:12) Where to start? He chose to go to Power Systems Institute (PSI), a program of First Energy Company) to enter the trade in 2007.
(7:30) PSI has trained around 4-5,000 line workers since it’s inception across 5 states via multiple training locations.
(8:31) The need for electric lineman and electric workers is greatly needed nationwide.
(9:13) First Energy isn’t alone in providing job training programs like this. Many power utility companies offer similar training. And, The IBEW also provides apprenticeship training for this as well.
(9:30) QUOTE: “There’s multiple pipelines. If you want to be a lineman, you can be a lineman if you’re physically able to and you can do the job.” -Herb
(9:40) It’s not a common choice for a career, because it’s not often presented as a choice. And, it’s often just taken for granted because the power is most always there when we need it.
(10:11) What was the training like? Herb provides an overview of the program he was part of and the cost (hint, hint…it was free for him!). It combined on-site training, as well as classes through the local community college.
(11:03) QUOTE: “I was learning the trade: how to tie nots, how to wire up transformers, how to climb. …After four years, you’re a Journeyman Lineman. You kinda know what you’re doing, but we’re learning every day.” -Herb
(11:50) Training for this dangerous work is rigorous. Herb started with 50 candidates. By graduation, there were about 10.
(12:35) QUOTE: “We never know it all. And usually when you think you do is when you get in trouble.” -Herb
(13:02) QUOTE: “…we don’t promote opportunities like what you [Herb] went through. …Society as a whole doesn’t often honor them in the way that they should.” -Janene
(13:20) “Skilled trades” is not a misnomer: it requires intelligent, educated and dedicated people. In this case, four to become a journeyman…and even longer for some skilled trades.
(14:16) QUOTE: “I’m a big proponent of the trades. I have no college debt…that’s helped my family…not having that burden.” -Herb
(15:09) We need both college- and trade- educated people. There are good choices out there on both sides. It’s important to understand the opportunities because so many trades people are close to retirement today.
(15:31) QUOTE “Replacing…that group of experienced people is only going to happen if we stop treating the trades like it is a second option.” -Janene
(16:25) Herb describes the toughest part of being an electric lineman: work/life balance is the most difficult part…as well as the weather, working at elevated heights with high-voltage electricity, and being a good problem-solving.
(17:35) The best part for Herb? Getting the lights back on during the storm. Lighting up a whole block or a city is a good feeling.
(18:17) Herb’s family is fully on board, too…even his kids who are under age 5. The spouses of line workers make a choice to live the “linelife” right alongside their electric line workers.
(18:54) QUOTE “It’s not just me. It’s all the guys I work with. It’s all their wives and all the friends. It’s a whole community.” -Herb
(19:12) This community on line workers is really tight. They support each other in good times and bad. They trust each other with their lives. There is a lot of teamwork, camaraderie and pride.
(20:14) QUOTE “Really it’s not all that different than a battlefield experience. You’re looking out for your buddy all the time and they’re looking out for you.” -Janene
(20:48) Herb describes a typical day on the job (on a sunny day): standard hours, start the day with a list of projects, plan how to get it done, prep for the day, get out there to the work, and then end the day in the same condition you started it in: with all 10 fingers and toes accounted for.
(21:58) a list of the kind of work done on a typical day: connecting new customers, new housing development sites, new commercial sites, pole upgrades and maintenance, aerial inspections, response to accidents and animals that cause line damage, or simply to areas that become overheated due to excessive use. Sunny days are still busy days to upgrade and maintain the electrical system.
(23:23) a quick overview of aerial line inspections…that hovering helicopter in your neighborhood may be electrical inspectors!
(24:24) Electrical line work can be very specialized, often divided into distribution and transmission work, as well as line work and substation work. Herb currently works on the transmission side, powering the substations for the distribution channels.
(25:55) QUOTE “It’s all the same, but it’s different” -Herb says with a smile.
(26:10) Herb describes some of the “toys” they get to use at work to get the work done. They get to use some pretty cool equipment. Even helicopters get workers on the line sometimes.
(28:14) Herb describes the work during not so typical time, like major storms of all kinds. They may suspect it’s coming by staying on top of the weather, and knowing whose turn it is to go, but the time between the call and getting under way can be pretty quick. The length of time away from family could be a few days, weeks, or months away from family.
(31:58) That time away affects the family as well, and the families will support each other.
(33:24) Communities often step-up to support the workers who are on storm-duty, especially recently.
(34:18) Storm duty is long and often challenging. Usually 16 hour days. There are many moving parts required to restore power…including time for crews safely prepare for the work, and to get rest and food to remain safe and sharp. Safety is the primary goal.
(35:53) QUOTE “It’s so much more than what you see.” -Janene
(36:40) Safety is the underlying message for all of these crews. The people that count on you are the best reason to not take short cuts and to make safe choices.
(39:37) QUOTE “I want the guys behind me to be better lineman than I am” – Herb speaks to the ongoing nature of safety training.
(42:13) So why choose a dangerous job like this? Herb explains his motivation. Loving outside work and a different challenge every day ranks high on his list. Family pride is high too, a nice perk. It’s also steady work and a good family income with great peer camaraderie.
(53:40) Asking Herb what he wishes more people knew about the career he has chosen: simply that it’s not just about the money. It requires sacrifices and that it can take a toll on life in many different ways.
(54:23) The keys to this job and most others: take care of yourself, make good choices, and get help when you need it. And don’t lose sight of what’s most important: your family. Work/life balance really is key.
(57:30) UECU is proud to be a resource that members like Herb rely on! Thanks Herb!
(59:54) “Don’t be afraid to ask questions” about money, your career, or life in general. No one gets through this life alone.
(48:20) Herb: Educate yourself as early as you can. Don’t wait for somebody to educate you. Be proactive. Look for good financial habits you can start early. Little habits become big habits later.
(50:47) Janene: UECU has a free series of short e-courses on various financial topics. It’s a great place to start for you and your family.
(51:30) Herb: Pay yourself first! It adds up.
This month our discussion takes a turn to get to know some of the people UECU serves and supports. As a Credit Union that has served utility workers since 1934, we've gotten to know first-hand how important their work is, and the many different ways they keep their communities safe, connected and comfortable. Today, we'll spend some time getting to know the challenges that families face when a spouse works the third most dangerous job in the US, and how the National Sisterhood United for Journeymen Linemen (NSUJL) helps when it is needed most.
Rae Johnson, President and Founder of the NSUJL, found her purpose. In doing so, her life experiences, all of the pain and struggle she personally faced came full circle to make that purpose possible. Now Rae and the NSUJL help others through times like she's experienced...on a national level. Today, we get to hear her story and the story of the organization she help create. You won't want to miss it.
(1:30) Electric Lineman: 42/100,000 lost on the job each year, 2,400 injuries: 3rd most dangerous job
(2:52) Meet Rae Johnson, President and Founder of National Sisterhood United for Journeyman Linemen
(5:00) How NSUJL was founded, and why. Now celebrating their 10th year!
(5:50) How Rae’s injury and industry experience played and continues to play such important role in the work of NSUJL.
(7:34) QUOTE: “It was definitely the moment when your whole like finally makes sense, your purpose…” -Rae
(7:59) Why line worker families need NSUJL's help
(8:28) How NSUJL got started and the help they could offer. “It was a dream, a home, an intent” -Rae
(10:48) Quick overview of a line worker’s life, and the life of the line family
(11:41) Storm duty and how it effects the family and the ability of the spouse to work
(12:28) Injuries and their impact on the line worker family, and what NSUJL does to help.
(14:25) QUOTE Regarding power outages: “My respect and understanding for what happens in that small amount of time has grown tremendously” -Janene
(14:58) Why electric workers have storm duty beyond the boundaries of the company they work for (Mutual Aid Agreements)
(16:46) The real story behind “Oh, my lights went out…where are they?”
(19:40) Third most dangerous job means injuries happen. This is where NSUJL steps in, because the families are not always prepared for that situation.
(20:39) QUOTE: “I’m a big advocate for financial preparation” -Rae
(25:00) All of those things are part of an estate plan. Learn more about Estate Planning in a quick and easy way with UECU’s www.uecu.org/cueitup short e-courses.
(26:46) QUOTE: “42 out of 100,000, that’s not going to be me. The fact is it’s somebody.” – Janene. It’s important to be prepared.
(27:40) Preparation is important, but it’s important to fully prepare. Even with full preparation, the need for NSUJL support is still real.
(32:50) How NSUJL offers support and reaches the families is different for each situation.
(34:33) NSUJL provides financial support, trauma therapy, in-home care provided by their nationwide members, and more.
(35:30) NSUJL is member-powered, just like UECU! Their members are the ones that meet personally with families in need, run the organization, represent the organization at events, and more.
(38:30) The NSUJL Line Worker Benefit Rodeo and the Climbing For Lost Linemen ceremony takes place every year over Father’s Day weekend. NSUJL-supported families are brought to the event as part of the support they receive.
(40:07) The Lineman Competition is open to the public because it’s a safe place to see them work. Lineman come from all over the country.
(41:06) QUOTE: “Some of these guys can scale a 45 foot pole up and back in 17 seconds!” -Rae
(41:50) UECU is proud to help sponsor the annual NSUJL event.
(42:25) The line worker community’s commitment to safety is real.
(43:14) QUOTE: “There’s no eraser on a lineman’s pen.” -Rae. This is why safety is key in their line of work.
(43:58) Having your financial life in order keeps distractions at work at bay because there’s no room for error.
(45:12) What is the Climbing For Lost Lineman Ceremony like? It’s both sorrow and pride on display.
(48:44) Line workers are part of that rare group of people who run into the storm. They are first responders too.
(50:04) QUOTE: “They are the nicest, roughest people you’ll ever meet” – Rae
(52:39) QUOTE about being a line wife: “We all just hold our breath when they leave, because we know that we could get that call.” – Rae
(53:18) QUOTE: “You go home and you flick that switch and you expect it to work. This is why they do what they do, and it makes them proud when they help the community get the power back on." -Rae
(53:50) How we can support line workers is simple: a coffee, some food, a thank you, and a bit of kindness and patience. It all means so much.
(22:00) Rae & Janene: get a major life insurance policy, short-term disability, long-term disability, and make saving for emergencies a priority. Pick a percentage to save every pay check, and it will automatically grow with every pay raise. “Set it and forget it.”
(30:02) Rae: Make sure you have all of the important documents covered that are part of the “Estate Plan” so your family can make financial and medical decisions as easily as possible
(31:07) Janene: Don’t let the list of things overwhelm you. Just pick one thing and get it done. “The peace of mind and security that your family will have, knowing that those things are done…what a difference it would make in their lives just to know that they’re prepared and take care of.”
National Sisterhood United for Journeymen Linemen | NSUJL
UECU's free CueItUp E-courses discussed today:
This month we continue the discussion about kids and money on the topic that often feels like a looming gray cloud from birth: paying for college. Get to know two of our student loan experts from Credit Union Student Choice: David Rodriguez and Tracie McGetrick. Our host Janene offers the perspective of a parent who crossed the "paying for college" finish line just a few years ago.
(Yes, even if your storm hits this year!) Whether you have saved a lot or a little, you can help your student make post-high-school education possible, and you don't have to do it all alone. Learn about the value of the FAFSA (even if you think you won't get anything...surprise! you might!), and how to understand and prioritize loan options. Learn about the annual "calendar of events" that plays out each year a student is enrolled, and how it changes between freshman year and the rest. (Surprise #2: being the squeaky wheel can truly pay off, too: ask for more, and you just might get it.) Just like last time, learning about this topic can never happen too early. And if your student is enrolled this fall, this episode is especially important!
(2:39) Get to know today’s guests, starting with David Rodriguez, Credit Union Student Choice Director of Strategic Partnerships, and,
(7:43) Tracie McGetrick, Credit Union Student Choice Vice President of Business Development
(9:40) Paying for College is possible! Let's get start
(11:00) Where to begin? It's all about the FAFSA. It is open for students and their parents starting October of the senior year in high school. It's not as hard as you may think and only takes about 20 minutes.
(12:45) The first FAFSA benefit: Federal Direct Loans. They are in the student's name and are not dependent on income or credit history, but they are limited. This is a low cost loan, or as David noted: "This is the cheap money," but they still need to be paid back in most cases.
(14:35) the second FAFSA benefit: state and university grants, otherwise known as gifts. These do not need to be paid back, but apply early for best results. They often set FAFSA application deadlines.
(18:36) Tracie shares that there is a big fallacy out there: "I'm not going to get anything, so I won't complete the FAFSA." The FAFSA holds the keys to many things, even academic scholarships sometimes require a FAFSA application.
(20:30)Will mom and/or dad contribute to expenses through savings? Will they budget a monthly amount? Will they apply for a Parent PLUS loan (just be aware that the student is not responsible for them) or other traditional loan?
(22:20) Tracie reminds us that universities often offer payment plans if parents want to budget a monthly amount for the school year. She also suggests that it is important to plan for more than just the first year. Look at the big 4-5 year picture and plan accordingly
(24:20) Remember that you don't have to figure this all out on your own. Help is available, from online resources like www.uecu.org/cueitup, to staff at UECU and Student Choice (info below).
(27:50) After the federal loans, grants and scholarships, how do you fill the gap that remains? That is where traditional loans or private student loans come in. For most of these loans, you must reapply for a new loan every year.
(29:30) UECU's Undergraduate Student Loan works differently. It's a line of credit that can be used each year that a student is enrolled, and requires only a quick check in with UECU to release a new amount each year. One loan means just one payment after school is over. Simple and easy.
(31:30) There is an annual "calendar of events" each year that a student is enrolled. It starts with the FAFSA in October of the prior year, and is followed by university award letters so you know what the gap is for the coming year. Janene notes that those award letters come fairly early for Freshman, but returning students may not hear from their university until July. Private student loans typically open up for applications in May.
(35:00) If your student is attending a technical or trade school, the options for student loans are not always as readily available, but UECU has traditional loan options available for parents. UECU believes in the value of skilled trades, and we want to help the next generation enter these careers.
(39:00) As your student heads off to school there are still ways to save money. Not everything is a fixed cost. Help your student finds ways to save where they can to keep the student loan totals as low as possible. (They can even have a job, even if only in the summer. Paying some costs out of pocket is always a great idea.)
(42:15) Talk to your students about money, the earlier the better, and involve them in the loan and FAFSA application process. On the back end, some of these loans will be their responsibility.
(44:00) After they leave school (hopefully as a graduate!), deferred payments will have a start date! Even with the current deferments of Federal loans, that is not the case for private loans. And for those in deferment, it's important to know who the servicer is, and to begin to work with them. Keep your information updated for when payments begin (again).
(46:51) Once repayment begins, you have options. Find out what they are. They may include a co-signer release (for private loans) like UECU's student loan where after a few years of on-time payments, you can apply to have your co-signer released from the loan obligation. What a nice way to say "Thanks Mom/Dad!"
(52:48) Refinancing isn't just for mortgages! If you have a high rate private student loan, now is a good time to consider refinancing while rates are still low. Even if you hold back on Federal loans until decisions are made about them politically, you can apply to refinance a portion of your loans to lock in lower payments at UECU. You can refinance again later to add Federal loans to the mix if it makes sense to do so at that time.
(54:48) Ask for help from an expert: Student Choice has college counselors available to discuss your options. More knowledge is always a good thing.
(17:00) David: "Ask for more." After your initial reward letter comes in as a Freshman, call the University Financial Aid office after you accept. Others chose to go somewhere else, and the funds set aside for them may be available to increase the amount awarded to you. Don't be afraid to ask. David noted that in most cases, the student gets more...but only if you ask.
(58:50) Tracie: Regarding the whole paying-for-college challenge, "It starts with choosing the school." Help your student look for an affordable option that is best for them and their course of study. General guidance: Your first year's salary should be pretty close to your student loan total. (Check online for starting wages in their chosen field...that's a great place to start.)
(59:23) Janene: "Allow extra." When you apply for a loan to fill the gap the first year, apply for a bit extra. Set the extra aside as a cushion for unexpected expenses (like next year's rent due early!). If you never need it, you can simply pay it back to the loan.
UECU's partners at Credit Union Student Choice:
UECU's free CueItUp E-courses discussed today:
Free government website all about Student Financial Aid: www.studentaid.gov
What will your student's entry level salary be?: www.salary.com
From infancy to school days, through graduation and into young adult independence, they learn the most about money from us, the parents.
We may never say a word, but they are learning. Here we discuss some age-appropriate ways to make talking (and learning) about money part of everyday life, and preparing them for bigger money decisions in their future.
April is Financial Literacy Month, and it's a great time to remember to "talk money" with our kids and each other.
Paula (19:47) “We learn from our parents, ‘you just don’t spend what you don’t have,’ and there was no other reason behind that…It makes sense, but why?”
Janene (20:49) “Having those discussions earlier about, like you said, small things makes talking about the harder things later, the bigger things, easier.”
(2:39) Get to know today’s guest: Paula Simmons, UECU National Account Representative
(7:43) Kids & Money: Talking to kids about money, is it worth it?
Janene (11:41) “The earlier that you learn from things, the better.”
Paula (11:46) “Better that little register fail than the rent check!”
(12:30) CueItUp is a great tool to make talking about money with your kids easier. It is great for parents and kids of all ages, and as Paula noted, especially for teens because: “Mom and dad don’t know anything.” <<insert eye roll here>> CueItUp is a free online resource of short(7-10 minutes) e-courses about money topics of all kinds: www.uecu.org/cueitup.
(22:50) Starting conversations with young children (through age 6). Where do you start?
Janene (31:45) “If you’re sitting here, and your daughter or your son is 14 years old and you’ve never really talked about money…it’s not too late, even if they are 25 or 27!”
(32:25) Helping elementary and middle school kids learn a little more about money and being responsible with what they have
Episode Title Inspiration (35:56) “School lunches cost WHAT?”: Commiserate with Janene and Paula. All parents feel like this as some point, right? Still…it’s a great moment to teach kids about money.
(40:30) Money lessons for high school students
Paula (44:13) on why she talks to her daughter about money: “I want you to have that better life than what I had…and if you know these basic concepts now…let’s keep it going.”
Janene (50:50) “There’s kind of a renewed respect for the trades, and partly that’s because…it’s hard to get a tradesperson to come to your house, because there’s not enough of them out there!”
(57:08) teaching older teens about credit is really important. It affects the cost of real life bills, and can limit choices more than we think:
(59:10) Janene “Use your smart phone calendar and reminders and set up recurring minimum payments so all bills get paid on time.”
(1:03:14) Paula “It’s never too early and it’s never too late. Just have those conversations regardless, and if you need help, call us!”
UECU's free CueItUp E-courses discussed today:
We all have real life money issues that 15 second sound-bites won't solve. Here, you will find real talk from money experts at UECU and our partners.
"When you work with good people who want to help other good people make good money choices, it's not just a job. It's a joy...because we truly get to change lives."
But beyond money, UECU is also part of many amazing communities, both geographical and vocational, and we will be sharing some of their great stories too.
Learn more and continue the conversation:
Amanda is a wife. A mother. A blogger. A Christian.
A charming, beautiful, bubbly, young woman who lives life to the fullest.
But Amanda is dying, with a secret she doesn’t want anyone to know.
She starts a blog detailing her cancer journey, and becomes an inspiration, touching and
captivating her local community as well as followers all over the world.
Until one day investigative producer Nancy gets an anonymous tip telling her to look at Amanda’s
blog, setting Nancy on an unimaginable road to uncover Amanda’s secret.
Award winning journalist Charlie Webster explores this unbelievable and bizarre, but
all-too-real tale, of a woman from San Jose, California whose secret ripped a family apart and
left a community in shock.
Scamanda is the true story of a woman whose own words held the key to her secret.
New episodes every Monday.
Follow Scamanda on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen.
Amanda’s blog posts are read by actor Kendall Horn.
