Education: Bachelor’s degree in business administration with an emphasis in accounting, Washington State University; licensed certified public accountant

When Susan Horton was a 37-year-old certified public accountant, a client, Wheatland Bank, asked her to take over as chief executive and president. Twenty-six years later, Horton’s leadership responsibilities continue to grow. 

The Spokane-based community bank was acquired by Kalispell, Montana-based Glacier Bancorp. last year, and Horton now oversees the Wheatland Bank division of Glacier, which has more than 20 branch locations and about 250 total employees in Eastern and central Washington--and is expected to grow with Glacier's pending acquisition of Bank of Idaho. In addition, Horton serves a coveted role on the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. advisory committee and serves on the board of the Spokane Business Association. 

When she’s not leading the large financial institution and working in the community, the former semi-professional barrel racer spends time on her 140-acre horse ranch with her family.

Who has been a significant influence in your life and career? My single mom was the most significant influence and role model in my early life. She immigrated here from Germany at the age of 19, learned the language, studied, and became a U.S. citizen. As a hard-working single mom who climbed the ranks in business herself, she taught me the core values that have guided me and instilled the importance of getting a good education, practicing a strong work ethic, having integrity in all you do, and always treating people with empathy and kindness 

What's the best piece of advice you've received? Get a great education, work hard, treat people well, and persevere.

What advice would you have for others looking to follow a career path similar to yours? Get an accounting degree and start into public accounting. The steep learning curve is exceptional, and it is one of the best foundations and springboards for a great career path in any type of business, including banking.

Do you have a favorite quote/motto? Whatever it takes!