CU SoCal Hosts Inspiring HQ Tour for South Hills High School Students

In an exciting initiative bridging education and professional experience, the Credit Union of Southern California (CU SoCal) welcomed 18 students from South Hills High School's Business Academy located in West Covina, California. This unique event took place on May 7, 2026, creating a vital connection between classroom learning and real-world applications in the financial services sector.

Educational Experience

The visit was expertly facilitated by Eric Redding, the teacher and program leader of the Business Academy. Students had the opportunity to dive deep into the workings of CU SoCal, guided by the enthusiastic Business Development Team. Their tour encompassed several key areas of the organization, including the Member Care Center, Fraud Prevention, Support Operations, and Facilities and Purchasing. Through these insights, students were able to grasp how each department contributes to the credit union's mission to serve its members more effectively.

The tour concluded with an engaging Q&A session held in a boardroom, allowing students to interact directly with CU SoCal representatives and senior leaders, further enhancing their understanding of the industry.

Valuable Takeaways

Students expressed that the visit made them feel welcomed, supported, and valued. They emphasized how approachable CU SoCal team members were during the event, taking the time to engage with students, answer questions, and bring the organization’s culture to life. A common theme among student feedback was their appreciation for CU SoCal's word walls, which provided inspiring messages that resonated deeply with them, reinforcing the organization’s core values.

Commitment to Future Talent Development

“This experience was designed to showcase the various career paths within a credit union and demonstrate how different departments collaborate to support our members,” said Melissa Manning, the Vice President of Business Talent Development at CU SoCal. “We were honored to host the South Hills Business Academy and highlight the teamwork and commitment to service that define our culture.”

About CU SoCal

Founded in 1954 as Whittier Area Schools Federal Credit Union, CU SoCal is dedicated to helping its members achieve better financial lives through personalized services and a commitment to community support. With a five-star financial rating from BauerFinancial and assets exceeding $3.84 billion, CU SoCal proudly serves more than 185,000 members across Southern California. Membership is accessible through various pathways, including family relationships, employer affiliations, or community connections.

This event not only exemplifies CU SoCal's dedication to youth education and community involvement but also highlights the importance of exposing students to potential career opportunities in a rapidly evolving job market.

For more information about CU SoCal and its commitment to providing superior financial services, visit CUSoCal.org.