MADISON, Wis. — Emerging credit union leaders want clearer routes to advancement, greater involvement in technology decisions and more opportunities for professional development and international networking, according to a new report from World Young Credit Union Professionals.
The WYCUP program, part of the Worldwide Foundation for Credit Unions, said its “Ask. Learn. Lead.” report is based on voluntary responses from credit union professionals age 40 and younger in 27 countries. The responses were collected during registration for the 2026 WYCUP Global Gateway virtual session series.
The report examines questions emerging professionals are asking about their careers and institutions, with technology and digital strategy the only theme identified in responses from all 27 participating countries.
The Findings
Among the findings:
- Leadership advancement: Respondents sought greater transparency about succession planning, promotion decisions and mentoring opportunities.
- Technology and digital strategy: Participants asked about their roles in digital planning, artificial intelligence readiness, fraud prevention and technology investments that improve member access and operational performance.
- Cooperative identity: Respondents questioned how growing credit unions can preserve cooperative values while balancing social purpose and financial results.
- Career development: Professionals raised concerns about access to training, mentorship and peer networks, particularly in North America.
- International connections: Participants expressed interest in global training, cross-border exchanges and professional networks, especially where local institutions have limited resources.
The Recommendations
The report recommends that credit unions establish clearer succession pathways, structured mentoring and peer development programs, and support for participation in global networks. It also calls for formal roles for emerging leaders in technology and strategic planning.
“The questions in this dataset reflect what credit union emerging leaders are encountering in their day-to-day careers,” said Kassandra Schroeder, director of WYCUP and global DE programs at the foundation. “The report is designed to give senior leaders a direct view into those priorities so they can respond to them.”
WYCUP also is planning a free Waypoint Virtual Summit for Nov. 3-4, bringing together emerging leaders and speakers from across the international cooperative movement. The organization encouraged credit union executives and human resources professionals to share the report and summit registration information with younger professionals.
The full report is available through the World Council of Credit Unions website.
