Who We Are

United Trades FCU exists to help skilled trades members build safe, secure financial futures with real, honest, straight talk. That promise guides every decision we make. Our mission puts your financial well‑being ahead of profits, because this credit union is owned by you, our members.

What We Value

• Members first, always. Everything we do starts with your goals—on the job, at home, and throughout your apprenticeship and career. Our mission commits us to education, clarity, and long-term financial well-being.
• Straight talk. Clear guidance without sales pressure.
• Cooperation over competition. We’re owned by our members and governed democratically—one member, one vote—with an elected, all-volunteer Board of Directors.
• Transparency & stewardship. We share how decisions are made and how dollars are used to serve members.
• Community solidarity. Programs that meet members where they are—especially through uncertain work cycles—because mutual support is how cooperatives thrive.

Our mission: We stand with skilled trades workers, delivering affordable services that build financial strength.

Our History

United Trades FCU was chartered federally on July 29, 1955, as Steamfitters No. 235 Federal Credit Union — founded by members of Steamfitters Local 235 with a simple goal: to take care of each other financially. In the early days the credit union was run right out of the union hall, and legend has it that loan decisions were often made over a toolbox or during a lunch break. No fancy office, no digital systems — just people helping people.

As the credit union grew, so did its community. Through the years, members from Oregon Rails, Willamette Industries, Printing Specialties, Portland Typographical, and others joined our fold through mergers and partnerships, each bringing their own trust and legacy. In 2005 the name changed to United Advantage Northwest FCU, reflecting that broader membership. After refocusing on the original mission of serving skilled trades professionals, the credit union rebranded as United Trades FCU in 2019.

Seventy years later, that founding purpose hasn’t changed: a financial institution built by trades workers, for trades workers.

Our Team

Leadership

Sarah McNeil, CEO
Robyn Guyer, CFO
Camron Roberts, COO
Maria Escamilla, Director of Member Service
Betty Jo Elliott, Business Development

Contact Our CEO

As a member-owner, your voice helps shape the future of our cooperative. If you have ideas, questions, or feedback, we want to hear from you. Reach out directly to our CEO, Sarah McNeil, or use our secure message form*. Your perspective matters because this credit union belongs to all of us.

*Please do not include account numbers, or other sensitive personal information in your email. For secure assistance with your account, use our secure message form or call us directly.

Our Performance