FirstBank believes in ensuring diversity is represented at each level of the organization. In March, we celebrate Women’s History Month by recognizing and celebrating some of FirstBank’s women in leadership.

Today we’re featuring Jamie Block, IT Director, Infrastructure.

Hometown: Metamora, Illinois

Years at FirstBank: 5 years

In three to four sentences, describe your experience in getting to where you are today.

After high school, I joined the Air Force where I trained as a Computer Systems Operator. I spent four years in the Air Force and went on to spend the majority of my career leading teams in infrastructure technologies and data centers. I joined FirstBank five years ago as a Manager for the Storage and Virtualization team, which later transitioned to the Cloud and Data Center team. In July, 2023 I was promoted to Director of Infrastructure.

How has FirstBank’s companywide philosophy of “banking for good” impacted your life and your career?

It’s amazing to work for a company that really puts its community and employees first. I am proud to work for FirstBank.

What is the best career advice you have for the next generation of leaders? What would you tell someone just starting out?  

Three pieces of advice I’d like to share: 1) There are many ways to achieve your goals 2) Do not get locked in to one path, and 3) Try new things and take advantage of the opportunities presented to you.

Considering March is Women’s History Month, which historical figure/s would you most like to meet and why?

I would most like to meet Maya Angelou because she lived such an extraordinary and unexpected life. She was the very definition of resilience and refused to be anything but her authentic self. I admire her ability to take difficult and painful experiences and turn them in to something amazing.

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