Navigating the AI Revolution: A Community Bank Perspective
By:
Tara L. Wean
Jeffrey P. Marsico
Benjamin T. Crowley
Guest: Andy Schornack – President of Security Bank & Trust Co.
Podcast Show Notes:
Our This Month In Banking (TMIB) podcast features discussion with colleagues and other industry thought leaders on interesting banking topics. TMIB is available on the last Wednesday of every month here, and on Apple and Android podcast apps for your listening enjoyment. Join us on your commute, at your desk, or home.
Topic: Navigating the AI Revolution: A Community Bank Perspective
On this episode of “This Month in Banking,” we focus on the integration and practical applications of AI from the community banking perspective with insights from Andy Schornack, President of Security Bank and Trust. Andy discusses how Security Bank and Trust has already implemented AI through Copilot, which they have cleverly named ‘Rosie,’ to assist retail bankers with policy and procedure queries, significantly reducing the need for managerial intervention. This AI tool, integrated within the Microsoft platform, enhances efficiency by providing quick access to information and linking directly to relevant policies. Andy emphasizes the importance of training staff to adapt to new technologies and highlights the cost-effectiveness and time-saving benefits of AI in daily operations.
The conversation also explores potential future applications of AI in banking, such as automating tasks like vendor management, fraud monitoring, and loan underwriting. Andy shares practical examples, including using AI to gather and analyze market data, streamline underwriting processes, and enhance customer relationship management. The discussion underscores the competitive advantage community banks have due to their flexibility and ability to quickly adopt new technologies. AI is set to play a crucial role in improving operational efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing customer service, thereby positioning community banks to compete effectively with larger institutions. Listen and enjoy!
Biography
Andy Schornack is the President of Security Bank & Trust Co., a $1.2 billion community bank with a significant presence of 21 locations across McLeod County, Carver County, and the greater Twin Cities Metro Area. Driven by a genuine passion to empower entrepreneurs and owner-operators, Andy believes in a partnership model where client success is paramount—a philosophy encapsulated by his mantra, “My business grows because yours does, not the other way around.” Beyond his leadership at Security Bank & Trust Co., Andy also serves as Chairman of the Minnesota Bankers Association, demonstrating his broader commitment to the banking industry in the state.
He leads Security Bank & Trust Co. in delivering quick, creative, and reliable banking solutions specifically designed for Minnesota’s small to lower-middle market businesses and entrepreneurs. The bank prides itself on growing alongside its clients, supporting their expansion efforts, whether organic or via acquisition, within and beyond state borders. Outside of his professional endeavors, Andy is a dedicated husband to Jill and father to three, and is deeply committed to supporting his community, local schools, and fostering a family life rich in exploration and travel.
Relevant Links:
Andy Schornak LinkedIn
Security Bank & Trust Co.
Andy Schornak X
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Watch for episode 114 of This Month in Banking to be released on Wednesday, June 25th, 2025, and a new episode on the last Wednesday of every month.
Thank you for listening!