Working to help others might not be the first description of a career in collections, but for Steve Kotch, it’s exactly that.

“Collections can be a challenge. For the customer, it’s a very difficult and stressful moment in life. And at times it can be a very emotional situation,” said Steve, the loan mitigation specialist at First Keystone Community Bank (FKCB). “But when you can establish trust with the borrower by assisting and counseling them through a difficult financial period, working to obtain a positive outcome for all parties involved, you can look back with a small sense of satisfaction.”

Steve began his career at First Keystone in 1999, starting at FKCB’s predecessor First National Bank of Berwick. He took on the newly created position of loan officer on the recommendation of a former colleague.

“I’ve changed positions several times over the years but stayed close to loans and collections,” Steve said. “I have performed duties in merchant services-credit card processing, accounts receivable and appraisal review. I’ve remained involved with collections and assist with security matters as needed.”

When he’s not working, Steve stays active volunteering in various clubs and community organizations like the Nanticoke Fire Department, Quality Hill Playground Association, and local Little League, basketball and football organizations.

For someone who has never planned for a career in banking, Steve has come full circle.

“My friends always say that I’m a banker and I lightheartedly correct them, saying I am not a banker, I’m a loss mitigation specialist working for a bank,” Steve said. “I’m honored to be part of a community-oriented organization which has an impact on local borrowers and the municipalities in which we reside.”