An interview with Sarah Trujillo

Sarah Trujillo didn’t plan on a career in credit unions.

She took a job at a credit union when she was 18 because her now-husband suggested it.

She stayed because of what she found there.

“The people helping people philosophy and the ability to do meaningful work that actually impacts real lives.”

Today, Sarah is Branch Manager at Kaiperm Credit Union, serving Kaiser Permanente employees and their families. The reason she comes to work each day hasn’t changed much from where she started.

For Sarah, it’s always been about people.

Connecting people, ideas and opportunities

Ask Sarah about her role and she’ll tell you it goes far beyond branch operations.

“I’m involved in business development, advocacy, networking, and improving the overall member experience,” she says. “A lot of what I do is about connecting people, ideas, and opportunities back to our team and our members.”

That focus on connection shows up in just about everything she does. Whether she’s supporting members, developing staff, or building relationships in the community, Sarah is often the person bringing people together.

And at a credit union that’s small enough to stay personal while still making a meaningful impact, those connections matter.

Growth doesn’t happen by accident

One thing that becomes clear when talking with Sarah is that she approaches leadership the same way she approaches her work: intentionally.

That’s what led her to join CUWLA Rise.

“I’m at a point in my career where I want to be more intentional about how I keep growing as a leader.”

For Sarah, CUWLA Rise felt like the right fit for where she is today—and where she hopes to go next.

The opportunity to learn from other women leaders, gain new perspectives, and build meaningful connections was exactly what she was looking for.

Always learning

Outside of work, Sarah loves spending time outdoors with her family, whether that’s exploring the redwoods, visiting the beach, or making memories together. She’s also a creative person by nature and runs a small side business as a creative outlet.

It makes sense.

Whether she’s connecting people, developing as a leader, or creating something new, Sarah is always looking for ways to grow.

And that’s probably why credit unions have remained such a good fit.

They’re built on the idea that people can always become something more—with the right support around them.

Interested in CUWLA Rise?

CUWLA Rise brings together women leaders who are ready to invest in their growth, expand their network, and prepare for what’s next in their leadership journey.

The program is open to women who report directly to their credit union’s CEO at credit unions with assets up to $500 million.

Learn more about CUWLA Rise.