2019 40 Under 40: Will Carter, 38

SBJ photo by Wes Hamilton

As marketing officer for Central Trust Co. in Missouri and Kansas, Will Carter is tasked with developing and executing strategies that shape the company’s brand. This included launching and managing a new website and developing subsequent training sessions, user manuals and instruction videos.

Carter studied journalism at University of Memphis and broadcast meteorology at Mississippi State University. He is president of the Springfield Ballet Inc. Board of Directors and vice president for Meador Park Neighborhood Association, as well as a storm spotter for the National Weather Service.

What is your proudest moment? Being the first in my family to graduate from college, and being able to pursue my dream of working in TV news.

What was your professional aha moment? After I transitioned from my work in the media to marketing … I found the skills that I had learned over the years could be applied in multiple ways to what I was doing now. That led to my involvement in some of our company’s major technology initiatives. 

What did you learn the hard way? You have to ask for help.

What is your theme song? “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey.

What’s your most treasured possession? A box of old home videos of me and my friends performing in my grandpa’s garage.

Have you ever met a celebrity? Marvel comic book creator Stan Lee.