About Michelle
With 33 years of banking experience, including eight years at Wildfire Credit Union, Michelle Vannest brings extensive expertise in business lending and a passion for helping entrepreneurs turn their ideas into reality. As a member of Wildfire's Business Services team, Michelle enjoys meeting with small business owners, learning about their dreams and goals, and providing the expertise and financing they need to make it all happen. Michelle earned a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Central Michigan University and brings three decades of business lending experience to every member relationship. She is actively engaged in the Midland community as an Ambassador for the Midland Business Alliance, a Board Member of the Economic Development Corporation of the County of Midland, a Leadership Midland Alumni Association volunteer and past Board Member, and the Board Member-Secretary for the Midland Noon Rotary Club. Outside of work, Michelle enjoys watching her son play baseball at Alma College, creating personalized clothing and sportswear, spending time at her cottage on Higgins Lake, golfing, attending summer concerts, and tailgating at sporting events.
Stats
Years of Commercial Lending Experience
50k+ members across all 50 states.
Total Commercial Loans Funded
Over $1.2 Billion in total assets.
Businesses & Organizations Served
200+ Wildfire Employees on our team.
Highlights
Wildfire Credit Union has been an outstanding partner for Kidd Company. When timing mattered, they delivered and made it easy. I would highly recommend Jim and the Wildfire team to any business owner looking for fast, professional financing and a credit union that truly supports growth.
Alex Wolfram
Owner
As a new business, we struggled with start-up costs. Thanks to Jim Couture and Wildfire Credit Union, we consolidated our debt into one manageable payment, freeing up capital to grow our business.
Stephanie Fenner
Owner
I want to say thank you to Michelle Vannest and the team at Wildfire for helping make this dream become a reality. Without their support we would never have been able to provide such an amazing place for the families in the Lansing area to get their therapeutic services.
Matt Bartels
Owner
