Hamilton Wade Johnson
Vice President and Loan Officer
Durden Banking Company, Swainsboro
President, Leadership GBA Executive Committee
Q: How long have you been in banking, and will you share a little insight with us about how you became a career banker?
I have been in this industry for about 14 years. I got started as an intern during the summer before my senior year of college working with Steve H Powell & Co. I enjoyed that experience and felt it was possibly a career field that would suit me. I also grew up with my father and my uncle working in the industry, so that was a factor as well. I wanted a career that would not only provide a living for me and my family, but also allow me to be active in the community. Being a banker, in a true community bank, allows me to fulfill those goals.
Q: What was your first job, and was there a lesson you learned there that you still use today?
When I was 15 I got a summer job at the local hardware store. My primary responsibility was stocking shelves, unloading/unpacking inventory deliveries, helping customers find what they needed, and basically anything else that was asked of me to do (including cleaning bathrooms haha). This was my first “paying job”. I had been a farm laborer for my father for many years prior and got paid very rarely for that! Being on the farm I learned a strong work ethic. Working in the hardware store I learned how to deal with the public. Both traits that I still use to this very day.
Q: What are some of the reasons why your fellow bankers should attend the Georgia BankPAC Classic on Oct. 17?
The primary reason is to support the fundraising. We need every dollar to help our cause. This is an effort that affects each one of us in our industry and is vital to defending how we conduct business and serve our customers. The secondary reason, in my opinion, is to enjoy a day outside the office with fellow bankers and affiliates from across the state. An opportunity for networking is never a bad thing.
Q: When you’re not on the job at the bank or fulfilling your bank duties, what do you like to do?
I love the outdoors. When I can find the time I enjoy hunting, fishing, boating, working outside, etc. But now most all the spare time I have is spent with either my 9-year-old daughter or 7-year-old son. They keep my wife and I very busy.