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"Credit can be a great tool when used correctly, but can be disastrous if you overuse it," explains Shane Jenkins, Chief Credit Officer at First Federal Bank.

Credit is more than just borrowing money - it's the foundation of financial growth and opportunity. When used wisely, credit becomes a powerful tool that helps businesses expand, families purchase homes, and individuals achieve their dreams. But like any tool, its value depends on how well you understand and use it.

For Shane, who grew up in Idaho Falls and graduated from Idaho State University with a finance degree, banking has always been about helping fellow Idahoans succeed. He has helped countless customers navigate the complexities of credit and lending across his 35 years of banking experience in Southern Idaho, including 15 years at First Fed and the past seven as its Chief Credit Officer.

"You want to make sure you're using credit for the right purpose," Shane emphasizes. "The key is matching the repayment to the benefit you're getting from those investments."

Because credit is such an integral part of banking, Shane is both responsible for the bank maintaining good standing by ensuring First Fed maintains high-quality loans and abiding by complex regulations while also helping customers make informed decisions.

"The benefit of having a relationship with one of our loan officers is that they can guide you through your financials and help you understand the risks of borrowing money. You may have great intentions, but there are always risks involved, and our bankers are here to help point those out."

How Local Decision-Making Supports Business Success

"All the decisions are made here locally," Shane explains. "We understand the economies of Southern Idaho and what drives them. You know your money is being reinvested in the communities where you live and bank."

This guidance is particularly valuable for small businesses seeking their first loan. "Many small businesses fail because they have a great idea but don't plan enough," Shane notes. He points to valuable local resources like the College of Southern Idaho's Small Business Development Center, which helps entrepreneurs prepare financial projections and complete business plans with experts who have done the same.

Building Relationships That Last

"Relationships are important to both the bank and the customer," Shane reflects. "When we have history with you, we can use that history to your benefit. If you've consistently repaid your loans and done exactly what you said you would do, that track record works in your favor because of your long-term relationship with us."

For Shane, banking is ultimately about helping people succeed. "My favorite part of the job is working with people in the community. We're part of the community -- we're just here to help our neighbors and friends succeed. When you understand credit and use it wisely, it becomes a powerful tool for building the future you want."

Whether you're a business owner looking to expand, a family planning to buy a home, or an individual working to build your financial future, First Fed can help you make the most of your credit's potential.