At this year’s MDT E3 Conference, MDT brought together a powerful community of credit unions, fintech leaders, and partners in a vibrant display of collaboration, strategy, and innovation. With nearly 300 attendees—including 53 client organizations, 26 business partners, and 79 MDT employees—the energy was palpable, and the message was clear: MDT is empowering credit unions to navigate the fintech landscape with confidence.
Becoming Rejection Proof
To kick off the event, we had the pleasure of hearing from bestselling author, Jia Jiang, on how to turn fear into opportunity through resilience. As he detailed his 100-day challenge to become “rejection proof,” we were encouraged to take risks, learn the art of negotiation, and stop selling ourselves short. It was a powerful session that left everyone feeling energized and inspired!
A Family-First Culture, Backed by Action
Next, Larry Nichols, our former CEO, took the stage to honor the past with a reminder of MDT’s people-first roots. With a reach spanning 120 credit unions, over 170 employees, and a footprint in 30+ states, MDT remains grounded in its values. “You demonstrate what you say with action,” Nichols shared—a message echoed throughout the event.
He then passed the baton to Chris Kowal, our newly appointed CEO, to set the tone for the future and discuss what’s on the horizon for MDT. Kowal highlighted MDT’s growth, strategy, and innovation and gave an overview of our what, how, and why.
He concluded the session by stating, “We are leveraging our past to build for our future,” which is a sentiment that strongly resonated with the audience and was reinforced many times over the next two days.
What We Will—and Won’t—Be
MDT’s leadership took the stage for a panel discussion, emphasized a commitment to embracing change while remaining true to its community roots. The culture encourages curiosity, openness, and growth. Just as importantly, MDT is determined not to lose sight of client needs, become stagnant, or resist improvement.
Fintech Trends and Market Insights
Eric Gubka’s “Fintech 201” session was another highlight, unpacking key industry terms and emerging technologies—from RPA to AGI, stablecoins, and contextual finance. Gubka gave an overview of the rules, regulations and executive orders that are impacting the industry, adding colorful insight into the implications of each of these changes. He also addressed the challenges and opportunities facing credit unions, encouraging everyone to think creatively about ways to solve for the difficulties that we all face.
A Look at What’s Ahead
MDT’s Spring Roadmap and strategic direction previewed exciting developments such as:
- 8 new strategic partnerships
- Expansion of the digital solutions, consulting, and training teams
- Enhanced product evaluation and go-to-market strategies
- New solution highlights like Kasasa, Akuvo, and upcoming updates to Banno Business
Jack Henry Update: Staying True, Building Boldly
Jack Henry’s CEO Greg Adelson joined us Wednesday morning to outline a bold future grounded in transparency, execution, and innovation. With 7,500+ clients, Jack Henry is investing heavily in modernization (attributing 14–15% of their revenue back into R&D) and doubling down on generative AI, real-time payments, and enhanced security. Their mission is clear: Help clients win—by doing the right thing, doing whatever it takes, and having fun.
Women in Leadership: “Yes, And…”
A standout session hosted by MDT’s Women in Leadership Community and featuring Jess McNier, SVP of Technology and Innovation at Financial Plus CU, Sheri Laboe, COO at Diversified Members CU, and Robin Whitlock, Senior Managing Director, CU Services at Jack Henry as guest speakers explored the empowering concept of “Yes, And…” as a mindset and embracing opportunity in the midst of the juggle. They shared personal stories, lessons learned, and encouragement with all of us to be better in our professional and personal lives by giving our best yes.
Looking Forward
With a clear plan, energizing culture, and expanding ecosystem, MDT’s E3 Conference made one thing clear: MDT is more than a technology partner—we’re a force for progress in the credit union movement.
As MDT continues to scale its impact through innovative solutions, strategic partnerships, and client-first thinking, one guiding principle remains: Leverage the past to build for the future.