2016 40 Under 40 Honoree: Casey Pyle, 38

Though he works for a publicly traded company operating in nine states, Casey Pyle is a shining example of a community banker. He’s deeply committed to developing the careers of his peers and lending team, and often serves as a mentor in an effort to make a positive impact. He takes advantage of all the bank-sponsored activities in the Springfield market he can, including local chamber events, Habitat for Humanity construction projects and financial education seminars. A Big Brother of a 17-year-old senior, Pyle also is active in the Rotary Club of Springfield and slated to become its president in July.

What was your first job? I was on a farm crew for Whittle Farms in Golden City around the age of 13. We picked up rocks and picked weeds in fields. I have no idea how many miles we would walk in a day.

Besides your family, what’s your most treasured possession? A 1978 Pontiac Trans Am.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be? Avoiding speed traps.

What did you learn the hard way? When I was 21, the staff of the bank department that I worked in was laid off due to a merger. Most of my department co-workers were laid off; I was retained because I was willing to relocate and take a new role. This was an eye-opening experience about the workforce.

What do you miss most about the 1990s? Life wasn’t such a rat race because I didn’t have a smartphone with 40 apps keeping me connected to work and the world.

Where’s your favorite place for a business lunch? Argentina Steakhouse.