The GoWest Credit Union Association is helping cultivate tomorrow’s leaders through the Young Professional Network. By convening young professionals from across the region and offering continual programming aimed at leadership development, the Young Professional Network will prepare the next generation of credit union leaders.
Signature Programs
YP Summit | June 2 – 3 | Spokane, WA
GoWest is dedicated to developing the next generation of credit union leaders. Through YP Leads, CU Communities, advocacy opportunities, and YP Summit, we create spaces for young professionals to grow, connect, and find their place within the Credit Union Movement.
YP Summit is more than a conference — it’s an immersive experience designed to help young professionals move from participation to purpose. This is where you connect with peers who share your values, discover how your role contributes to something bigger, and gain the confidence to lead, serve, and advocate.
Whether you’re new to the Credit Union Movement or looking for your next way to make an impact, YP Summit helps you understand why you belong, how you can contribute, and where your leadership journey can go next.
YP Leads Program
The YP Leads Program is GoWest’s signature young professional leadership experience, designed to empower emerging credit union leaders. Each year, only 18 young professionals (3 from each of GoWest’s six states) are selected to participate in this exclusive program.
What are the benefits?
- Attend MAXX as a fully sponsored YP Lead. (Travel and lodging costs are the responsibility of your credit union).
- One-on-one mentorship with an experienced credit union leader.
- A yearlong leadership development journey, with a mentor-mentee plan created at MAXX.
- Develop a community of peers by connecting with industry leaders, innovators, and advocates who are shaping the future of the Credit Union Movement.
- Opportunities to engage in the Credit Union Movement, develop skills and gain industry knowledge through breakout sessions, general sessions, and networking experiences.
What’s the commitment?
- Actively participate during the 4-day MAXX Experience
- Attend monthly or quarterly virtual check-ins with their mentor
- Contribute to at least one GoWest advocacy initiative throughout the year
- Bring back what you’ve learned to your credit union and local community
Step Into a Mentor Role with YP Leads
YP Leads Mentors play a meaningful role in shaping the experience for our next cohort of young professionals. As a mentor, you’ll be paired with a small group of participants and support them throughout their leadership journey — offering guidance, encouragement, and real-world perspective along the way.
We welcome individuals who are passionate about developing others and giving back to the Credit Union Movement. Many of our mentors are YP Leads alumni or professionals who have grown into leadership roles within their organizations and are excited to invest in the next generation.
As a mentor, you can expect to:
- Connect regularly with your mentees leading up to, during and after MAXX
- Support their growth, confidence, and leadership development
- Serve as a go-to resource and familiar face throughout the conference experience
Mentor applications are open through June 19, and we plan to select one mentor per state.
Steering Group
The YP Steering Group comprises two representatives from each of the GoWest regional YP groups across our six states. This dedicated group takes charge of guiding and overseeing our young professional initiative, ensuring its success and impact. Please contact Lexy Strong for more information on how to get involved.
Regional YP Groups
- Arizona YCUP
- Colorado YCUP
- Idaho YCUP
- YCUP PDX
- YP Leads Legacy Group
- Wyoming YCUP
Partnerships
Upcoming CU Community Events
All EventsKing County Chapter: CU4Kids Golf Tournament
Virtual Leadership Lunch & Learn
North Idaho Chapter Boat Cruise & Annual Meeting
14th Annual Tri-Chapter Golf Tournament “The Papa Ray”
On The Go Articles
National Credit Union Foundation’s 2025 Impact Report Highlights the Power of the Movement
The National Credit Union Foundation released its 2025 Impact Report, highlighting how credit unions across the country are working together to improve financial well-being and strengthen communities.
GoWest Foundation Disaster Relief Fund: Supporting Credit Unions When It Matters Most
The GoWest Foundation Disaster Relief Fund is available year-round to support member credit unions and their employees, board members, and volunteers through recovery efforts following wildfires, flooding, and other natural disasters.
Amplifying the Credit Union Voice Across the GoWest Region
Credit unions across the GoWest region continue to earn the spotlight as trusted financial voices in their communities.