Eric Quintero has recently transitioned from a successful career in banking to taking on the role of Community Development Manager at the Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation (BCIC). His background in financial services and deep-rooted passion for his hometown have equipped him with a unique perspective on enhancing Brownsville's economic landscape.

Q: How has your experience in banking influenced your approach to community development?

Eric: Brownsville has a lot of opportunity... there is a lot of room for financial literacy in educating customers from consumer and commercial points of view. So that's why I think it's important for nonprofits like us and other organizations in the city to not just educate business owners, but educate the everyday student, the everyday customer on financial aspects of how they can better themselves, whether it's credit, whether it's borrowing funds, their credit score, savings, the 401k, life insurance, health insurance.

Q: What is the biggest asset Brownsville has that is currently undervalued?

Eric: Biggest asset that I think Brownsville has right now is that it has a young and thriving group of people that can make a serious impact for the city... It's just going to take some time, but our generation has a lot of potential to make a big difference and push Brownsville leaps and bounds from where it is.

Q: What red flags should Brownsville watch out for in community development, drawing from your experience in banking?

Eric: From an ethical standpoint, it's crucial that all decision-makers - whether it's BCIC, our board, or other community organizations - prioritize the city's and people's best interests. We must be vigilant in making decisions that are not just lawful but also morally sound and beneficial for Brownsville's long-term development and do the right thing that's for the city and for the people.

Q: What aspect of banking culture would you bring to BCIC?

Eric: I'm bringing the customer-centric approach from banking to BCIC. This means considering the impact of every decision, no matter how small, on our community members. I aim to ensure my knowledge and assistance are there for anybody and everybody, from the tiniest detail to the largest asks.

Q: What are your aspirations for the sports park in Brownsville?

Eric: My dream would be somehow to have the UTRGV football team play some games there at the sports park, as opposed to Sam's stadium... There's still room to grow there. There's still a lot of room to build. And really, other than the occasional little event here and there, it's not being used to its full potential.

Q: Outside of work, what hobbies or interests might surprise people, and how do they connect to your role in community development?

Eric: I'm boring! TV, movies, video games, and spending time with my wife and son. And sports.

Q: How do you feel about the changing weather, and what are you looking forward to?

Eric: This is the weather I look forward to the most... because it lets me know football season is starting.

Q: You've made the leap from banking to community development. How do you plan to invest in Brownsville's future in your new role?

Eric: It's a little too early. I guess it's not much of a difference. It's more, at the end of the day, it's still about the people. The way I approached banking was not more so looking at customers from a financial standpoint, but from a personal standpoint of how I could help them. So this is kind of the same method I'm taking with clients here. It's, how can I help you be better for yourself personally, as opposed to helping just your business?

Q: In your experience, what are some common financial pitfalls that particularly affect communities like Brownsville, and how can BCIC help residents and local businesses protect themselves?