In the CEO Spotlight

Meet Austin Petrik, Avanti FCU’s new CEO, leading with vision, dedication, and a strong sense of community.

Austin Petrik

Austin Petrik’s path to the credit union industry was shaped by a deep appreciation for community and service. Although this is his first experience working directly within the credit union system, Petrik brings a strong background in finance and leadership. While attending graduate school for finance, he worked for U.S. Bank in Fargo, North Dakota, before beginning a career in corporate construction finance. Over the years, he managed projects for large retail companies including Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, and Saks Fifth Avenue, gaining valuable experience in financial management and strategic operations.
 
When the opportunity arose to join Avanti Federal Credit Union (FCU) in Watertown, South Dakota, Petrik was drawn to the organization’s member-first philosophy and community focus. He officially stepped into his role as president and CEO in January 2025. “I was immediately inspired by the cooperative mission,” he shared. “Our member-owned, service-first model motivates me and my team to create a friendly, proactive, and engaging financial institution that truly serves our members and our community.”
 
Avanti FCU has a long-standing history in the region. Originally chartered as Watertown Employees’ Federal Credit Union, the credit union converted to a community charter in 2004, allowing it to serve all residents of Codington County. In 2009, the credit union changed its name to Avanti FCU, and just a few years later, in 2012, expanded its field of membership to include Clark, Deuel, Grant, and Hamlin Counties in northeast South Dakota. Today, Avanti continues to serve its growing membership base from a single branch in Watertown with a dedicated staff of six employees.
 
Community involvement is a core value at Avanti, and Petrik takes pride in continuing that legacy. The credit union participates in numerous local initiatives throughout the year, supporting organizations such as the United Way, Glacial Lakes Humane Society, and the Salvation Army, among others. Petrik also serves personally on the Salvation Army’s financial board and is involved in several charitable organizations around the Watertown area.
 
Reflecting on his early months as CEO, Petrik notes that transitioning into leadership was both challenging and rewarding. “Stepping into this position after my predecessor came with a learning curve, but it was also an incredible opportunity to continue building upon the great work already being done,” he said. “My focus has remained on providing the consistent, high-quality service that our members expect, while also exploring new ways to grow and innovate.”

Petrik holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Minnesota State University Moorhead and a master’s degree in finance from the New England College of Business in Boston. He credits several key influences in his life for shaping his leadership philosophy, including his grandfather, a General in the South Dakota National Guard, and his parents, whose work ethic and commitment to service continue to inspire him. “I’ve been lucky to have incredible mentors who helped guide me through tough decisions and moments of growth,” he shared.
 
Outside of work, Petrik enjoys spending time with his family and their dogs, watching sports, and, as he admits with a laugh, “suffering through another Dallas Cowboys season.” He’s also active with the Kiwanis Club and volunteers regularly with the Glacial Lakes Humane Society.
 
A fun fact that surprises many is that Petrik and his wife are also local business owners. They founded Labbie’s Sports Bar & Grill in Watertown in 2021, naming it after their beloved 17-year-old Labrador Retriever, Trey. What began as an idea quickly became a community favorite earning Watertown’s Rookie Business of the Year award in 2022. The restaurant not only serves great food and camaraderie but also gives back to the community through fundraisers and charitable events.
 
With his passion for service, strong leadership background, and deep community roots, Petrik Petrik is proud to be leading Avanti FCU into its next chapter continuing its legacy of member service and community impact while embracing innovation for the future.

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