Mission Bank Expands Its Agricultural Lending Team in Bakersfield, California

Mission Bank Expands Its Agricultural Lending Team

Mission Bank has recently initiated an exciting expansion of its Agricultural Lending Team based in Bakersfield, California. The bank has appointed three skilled professionals, John Etchison, Eric Schoenheide, and Eliza Hernandez, who bring an impressive blend of experience and local knowledge to the table. This strategic move is designed to enhance the bank's capacity to serve the unique needs of growers, ranchers, and agribusiness professionals in the region.

A Deep Commitment to Agriculture

The foundation of Mission Bank's success is rooted in its dedication to community service, particularly in the agricultural sector. New team member John Etchison, who hails from Bakersfield, has a remarkable 44 years of experience in the ag banking industry. With a strong academic background from Bakersfield College and California State University Chico, he is well-equipped to navigate the intricacies of agribusiness lending. His commitment is underscored by his active membership in the Kern County Farm Bureau, showcasing his dedication to supporting the local farming community.

Alongside him, Eric Schoenheide adds his decade of experience in the Bakersfield ag lending scene. A graduate of California State University, Bakersfield, Schoenheide was part of the inaugural class of the Ag Business Program, highlighting his early commitment to the agricultural sector. As a Bakersfield native, his insights into the local market and community needs are invaluable.

Lastly, Eliza Hernandez joins the team as a Relationship Associate. With two decades in banking and 14 years focused specifically on agricultural lending, her expertise complements the team's collective knowledge. Raised in Earlimart, California, and a graduate of Cal State University Long Beach, she brings a fresh perspective and a wealth of experience to the table.

A Relationship-Focused Approach

Under the guidance of Ag Division Manager Rob Hallum, the new team will operate from the Downtown Bakersfield Business Banking Center. Hallum expressed enthusiasm about the additional expertise within the team, noting, "We’re looking forward to rolling up our sleeves and getting to work. Mission Bank has a long history in California's Ag industry, and now we'll have even more capacity to serve the needs of this community."

The addition of this team marks the second expansion of Mission Bank's agricultural lending division in 2026, following the integration of another team earlier this year led by Mark Pearce in North San Luis Obispo County. This showcases Mission Bank's ongoing commitment to enhancing its service offerings in the agricultural sector.

Mission Bank’s Growth Trajectory

Founded in 1998, Mission Bank was established by a group of Bakersfield business owners seeking a more personalized banking experience. Now, nearly three decades later, the bank has grown to manage $2 billion in assets across nine locations in five counties throughout California. President and CEO AJ Antongiovanni emphasizes the importance of their staff in driving their commitment to superior customer service, stating, "We are fortunate to add experienced professionals like John, Eric, and Eliza to our team. It shows our commitment to providing the highest level of service to our customers and supporting those who contribute to our local economies."

With the expansion of its Ag Lending Team, Mission Bank stands poised to strengthen its role as a vital resource for agribusinesses within its service area, enhancing its ability to foster growth and stability within the agricultural community. This addition speaks volumes about the bank's ongoing mission to empower local producers and reinforce its position as a pillar of support for those who serve the world by feeding communities.

In conclusion, Mission Bank's expansion is a strategic move to enhance its service portfolio, demonstrating its commitment to the agricultural sector and the local community. As the team of seasoned professionals begins their journey at Mission Bank, stakeholders can expect efforts that align with the evolving needs of the agriculture industry.