When Carla Cicero first assumed her role as CEO of Spokane Valley-based Numerica Credit Union in 2011, the financial institution's assets totaled $975 million. As of Sept. 30, the total assets exceeded $4 billion.  

In addition to leading the credit union through an era of growth, Cicero has served on many civic and business boards, including Greater Spokane Incorporated, Rosauer Supermarkets, Credit Union Executive Society, and World Council of Credit Unions. 

While serving as the chair of GSI, Cicero helped launch Believe Spokane, a five-year campaign to increase economic vitality through economic development and talent attraction and retention.  

Education: Bachelor’s and master's degrees in business administration, from University of Phoenix and University of Wisconsin, respectively. 

Why did you choose to do what you do? The honest truth is that the career chose me. I started working for credit unions at 17, thanks to an opportunity my mom helped me secure at her workplace. By the time I was 23, I decided to commit to the credit union industry and set an ambitious goal to become a CEO by the age of 35. At the time, I was inspired by what I saw in the CEO’s role—leading people, achieving meaningful results, and traveling frequently, which seemed exciting to my 23-year-old self. I’m proud to say I started my first CEO job at the age of 32. And that’s how it all began.

What's the best piece of advice you've received? At 23, I decided I wanted to become a CEO—a bold ambition I shared with a highly influential figure in the credit union industry. His response was both surprising and disheartening: "Don’t even bother. Women don’t get CEO positions in our industry." Rather than deterring me, his words ignited a fire within me. That moment became a turning point, fueling my determination to break the cycle of discrimination and prove that women belong in leadership at the highest level. 

What's a fact about you that most people would be surprised to learn? I have traveled to all but one continent, Antarctica.

Do you have a favorite quote/motto? "Everything you've ever wanted is on the other side of fear."