Wade Walters of U.S. Bank visited juniors and seniors in Mr. Cronin’s Agriculture Employability class and delivered a powerful, real-world message about life, careers, and responsibility. Speaking as an agricultural lender and active community member, Wade explained that not everyone needs to go to college, but everyone does need a plan. He encouraged students to pay attention, stay open-minded, and use their education to help guide their future choices.
Wade emphasized that it is perfectly normal to be undecided, but students should watch for opportunities and “signs” that help them discover their path. He described how skilled trades can allow young people to “write their own paycheck” and shared honest pros and cons about starting a business, partnering with others, and managing assets. Throughout his visit, he repeated the message that “That’s life,” and the decisions students make now will shape their ability to be employable, responsible, and successful adults.
From discussing agriculture, economics, and global issues to explaining how banks and government functions connect to everyday life, Wade delivered insight that felt more valuable than a college lecture. He covered credit scores, overdraft reports, lines of credit, down payments, debt-to-value pitfalls, and the dangers of owning more than something is worth. Students learned about barriers to entry in business, record keeping, investing, benefits, and the realities of financing everything from equipment to livestock.
Wade also reminded students to respect adults who invest time in them, because society depends on the next generation to step up as older generations retire. He spoke about the demand for future agriculture lenders and economic professionals, explained why networking matters, and encouraged students to solve problems, stay calm in stressful situations, and choose their battles wisely.
Throughout the presentation, Wade mixed humor, honesty, and personal experience, sharing examples from agriculture, trucking, business ownership, and banking. He stressed that success requires effort, discipline, and learning from mistakes—without making a habit of repeating them.
To close his message, Wade paused and delivered one final word: Trust.
He told students that character shows through actions, not just words, and encouraged them to always do the right thing—no matter what the market, the economy, or the world around them is doing.
Wade Walters left a lasting impression on the class, offering knowledge, wisdom, and a down-to-earth perspective that students will carry with them long after graduation.