Chamber Spotlight - Jim Arneson

Name: Jim Arneson
Company Name: Community First Bank
Title: President, COO
Years at Company: 2 1/2

What inspired you to pursue a career in this field?
I began my career as a CPA and after a number of years auditing primarily banks, I began to feel like I wasn’t making a real difference – I wasn’t creating or building anything or leaving anything behind of any lasting value.  When I had an opportunity to go to work for one of my bank clients, I jumped at it, and never looked back. 

What are three things you use at work every day?
Phone, computer, teamwork

What was your first job?
I started as the gas boy at Metz Marina, pumping gas and doing whatever no one else wanted to do.  

How do you spend your free time?
Doing things with my family, and I love the outdoors, so whatever I can do outside – fishing, hunting, hiking, shooting, exploring 

What are three words that best describe you?
Fair, honest, diplomatic

What did you want to become as kid?
I thought it would be pretty cool to be someone like Davy Crockett.

Would you prefer to travel back in time or into the future?
Definitely the future!

How long have you lived in the Tri-Cities?
About 22 years, altogether

Where is your hometown?
Richland

Do you have any special talents?
Sadly, no.

One piece of advice you’d give a young person that wants to get into your field?
Educate yourself – learn all you can about a wide variety of topics.

What was the first concert you attended?
I don’t remember the first one, but probably something like 2nd Chapter of Acts.

What excites you the most about the direction of the Tri-City Regional Chamber?
I’m thrilled that the Chamber is not just a networking organization, but is working hard and making a tangible difference in the economic prosperity of our region through a variety of specific initiatives and programs.