Mike Ostergren

Growing up with relatives that share similar passions and work in similar fields, you are set up with a solid foundation of knowledge and understanding within the family’s chosen industry. That’s exactly the experience 21st Century Bank’s Vice President of Commercial Banking, Michael Ostergren, had as a kid.

“I grew up in a family of bankers and accountants,” he said. “Financial management, accounting and budgeting all came very natural to me.”

To kick-start his career, Ostergren obtained a degree in finance from Minnesota State University, Mankato. While pursuing his studies, he was given the opportunity to serve as an intern at both a bank and financial advisory practice. “MSU-Mankato not only provided me with a high-quality education, but they offered a number of programs and activities that set me up for success,” he said.

Upon graduation, Ostergren began his banking career, starting as a credit analyst at a small, community bank. This helped him gain invaluable experience early on, as he had the opportunity to sit in credit meetings, partner on special projects with the bank’s management team, collaborate with clients and professionals. “I found it all very interesting to be involved with, and I became hooked,” he said.

Over the past 15 years, Ostergren has spent time working as a commercial lender before accepting his current role with our organization. Throughout his years in the industry, he’s witnessed first-hand the power of connecting clients to financial products and services aimed at growing their business – and he’s heard countless client stories.

“I like a good story. If you ask a few questions and get the customer talking, they’ll tell you about their passion, and I find that interesting,” he said. “Entrepreneurs are very passionate about what they do.”

Today, Ostergren works with small to mid-sized businesses. He lends his expertise to continuing building long-lasting, valuable relationships with small businesses, entrepreneurs, and other professionals.

“I’m excited to further 21st Century Bank’s reputation in the community by empowering our customers’ successes,” he said. “At the end of the day, we know that our customers’ growth is our bank’s growth, too.”

Through his time in the industry, he’s embraced and enjoyed the qualities that makes entrepreneurs great — a willingness to lean on their trusted group of advisors, allowing opportunities to pull others up with them, and sharing successes.

In his free time, Michael is active in playing sports and officiating youth sports. One day, he hopes to have the opportunity to coach his two boys.