How did you get into the credit union field?

I had worked at a bank for several years and although I enjoyed the work and the people, I wanted to do more. I felt more like a cog at the bank. I was young and had more energy than I knew what to do with, and at a credit union, you could wear a number of different hats.

So you started in commercial banking?

I started with City National Bank. I was in the trust investment department.

What’s the best aspect of being a credit union officer as opposed to a commercial banker?

Working at a credit union provided a real opportunity for me to use my energy to make some real progress and positive changes. Credit unions in those days began to grow and become more complex and benefited from new ideas and new approaches. I had a very fertile ground in which to share those.

The worst?

There was and has always been a real conservativeness in credit unions. Those in the credit union industry that began introducing checking accounts, certificates of deposit and money market accounts were often looked upon as rebels and worse.

What was the worst day in your career?

The worst day had to be Sept. 11, 2001. As the CEO of a financial institution that serves professional firefighters statewide, I have come to know and respect the selflessness, dedication and heroism that these folks demonstrate each day. I saw and experienced the outpouring of grief from our members and our staff when we all realized how many civilians and firefighters were lost in the Twin Towers. The events of that day drove us to establish a fund that our members and the community at large could use as a vehicle for donations to help victims. Our membership contributed over $1 million for that cause and also precipitated the creation of our own foundation to assist firefighters in need as well as fire victims.

What was the best day?

When I was selected to become president and CEO of this financial institution. I knew I had an opportunity to make significant and positive changes that could be impactful to our members, staff and the organization at large. I was new and inexperienced but was raring to go.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

The saying, “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care,” really resonates with me.

Tell us something your colleagues don’t know about you.

I am a relatively new grandfather. My grandson, Connor, now 18 months old, truly lights up our lives in a way that is not easy to describe. Both my wife and I very much enjoy freshwater fishing in the Eastern Sierra and try to do that each summer. Connor will be joining us very soon.

MICHAEL MASTRO, 61

Chief Executive

Los Angeles Firemen’s Credit Union, Los Angeles

YEARS IN POSITION: 33

RESIDENCE: Valencia

FAMILY: Married to Sharon; they have two adult children and one grandchild.

ACTIVITIES: Fishing, golf, wine tasting.