Nov. 2, 2021

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Haley Carlson, a mortgage loan assistant at First Bank & Trust.

Name: Haley Carlson

Age: 29

Hometown: Beresford

What brought you to Sioux Falls?

I technically live in Beresford, but what has brought me back to the Sioux Falls area is the number of opportunities available and the fact that it is a great place to raise a family.

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

Growing up, Sioux Falls was always the place to be, and that is still true! I want my children to have the same great sense of community I grew up in, and the Sioux Falls area still provides that to this day.

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

I love working with customers through the homebuying experience. My favorite aspect of my job is helping educate homebuyers and homeowners on the mortgage process. A lot of people see the mortgage process as a daunting task, and it’s our teams’ goal to help make people feel more at ease and knowledgeable about the process. There is no better feeling then seeing a first-time homebuyer realize there are programs designed for them and purchasing a home is no longer a dream but can be a reality.

How did you get connected to your industry?

After graduating from Buena Vista University, I started in the banking industry as a teller. I then worked my way up and found myself in a lending position. I have spent some time in almost all the different types of lending, but once I found mortgage, everything clicked.

Describe your workplace in three words.

Passionate, empowering and fun.

What is something someone might be surprised to learn about you?

Growing up, I was an avid barrel racer. I had a horse named Sadie that I really connected with. Sadie unfortunately passed away from cancer, and barrel racing was never the same for me. To fill that void, I picked up tennis, and I ended up playing tennis in college and being the captain of the women’s tennis team.

What’s your favorite way to give back to your community?

My favorite way to give back is through volunteering with Sioux Falls Cares. There is no greater joy than knowing so many families in this community are going to have a wonderful holiday because this program exists, and by volunteering, I have a small hand in making it happen.

What’s one business you’d like to see in Sioux Falls that isn’t here now?

Trader Joe’s.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

I see myself in the mortgage world as not only a lender but also an educator. Mortgage lending is constantly changing, and as Sioux Falls continues to grow, I want to be on the forefront of helping future homebuyers become homeowners.