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Steven G. Pettit

Steven G. Pettit

FirstBank

Knoxville Market President

Hometown: Canton, OH

What is your vision for Knoxville 10 years from now?

I would like to see steady and sustained economic growth supported by an abundance of young professional talent that embodies a strong work ethic and a commitment to our community.

What is Knoxville's Best Kept Secret?

FirstBank!

What would you do to strengthen Knoxville?

There is an unfortunate gap in young banking talent in Knoxville caused entirely by the lack of Management Training programs that were very common in most banks during the 70's, 80's and 90's. Most small and medium sized banks today do not have the patience, programs, or budgets to adequately train young bankers to understand and feel confident in making financial decisions for new and growing businesses. This is the backbone of capitalism and our country...and I feel we are not looking deep enough into the future by not developing the next generation of bankers.

What is your favorite Knoxville memory?

Several: (1) College years at UT and spending time with my relatives in Holston Hills (2) My son Matthew's Law School Graduation at UT in 2022 (3) The "commuter" years that involved moving my family from Ohio to Knoxville 2013 - 2015 and watching my children adapt to Knoxville and "Southern Culture".

What is your favorite book or what book is currently on your nightstand?

Letters from J. D. Rockefeller to his Son" and next up "The Creature from Jekyll Island

What is the best advice you have received from a mentor, and who was that mentor?

My first boss that became a mentor once told me to "Never take yourself too seriously when loaning money....it is very easy to underwrite and make a loan.....but very hard to pay it back.

What advice would you give to your 16 year old self?

Do not become so self-absorbed with a single-minded goal focused on athletics, be more patient with those around you, concentrate on the basics of education, learn how to write and understand a balance sheet!

Steven G. Pettit
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