Matt Humphrey (Photo Provided)

PARKERSBURG — When Matt Humphrey was preparing to go from high school to the next level of education, taking his route through the military was not something he considered.

That all changed when he received a letter from the United States Military Academy at West Point.

As he read that letter he became excited about the challenge of attending one of the top leader development institutions in the world and the challenges it would present to him academically, physically and mentally.

Humphrey was able to earn the congressional nominations required for acceptance to the academy and begin his journey with the U.S. Army.

Humphrey was commissioned a second lieutenant upon graduation from West Point. There he gained his first leadership experience as an officer.

Over the next eight years, he would go on to serve in several leadership positions as an Army aviation officer in Korea, Central America, Afghanistan and the U.S., as well as have the opportunity to fly Blackhawk helicopters.

After completing his military service obligation, Humphrey transitioned to civilian life, returning to school to earn an MBA from Vanderbilt University with a concentration in finance, strategy and entrepreneurship.

After earning his MBA, Humphrey began his wealth management career working as a private wealth adviser. However, after several years on the job, he was approached about a new opportunity with United Bank.

When he met with United executives to discuss opportunities to help drive growth of the wealth management and brokerage business of the bank, Humphrey says United’s demonstrated commitment to teamwork and collaboration, organizational traits he came to value while serving in the military, is what drew him in.

Humphrey said his leadership style was strongly influenced by what he learned at the academy and in the Army.

“In strong military units, there are no heroes. The hero is the team. I believe this mentality is not exclusive to just the military, but can apply to a myriad of examples of collaborative work,” he said. “I strive to encourage teamwork and collaboration at all levels, and it’s important for me to help everyone reach their full potential. I believe that we can all improve and get better when we are challenged in tough situations.

Humphrey said he learned the importance of being fair and kind and to value those who are working toward the common goals of the organization.

“As a leader, if I can be that voice of encouragement that not only holds our team accountable to a high standard, but also inspires and helps bring together my team, then I will have become the type of leader that West Point and the military trained me to be,” he said.

For those transitioning to civilian life, he said the most important thing is to keep an open mind and never stop learning before, during and after the transition.

“While many people in the business world will appreciate the unique and valuable skills gained during your military service, you must be able to perform at a high level in your new role to earn the respect of others and to achieve success,” he said. “There are high expectations in the military, and if you continue to strive for that same level of excellence and hold yourself to that same standard in all areas of your life, you’ll find great success in whatever you pursue.”

A lifelong athlete, sports continue to play a major role in Humphrey’s life, a trait he and his family share. He manages to squeeze in regular CrossFit workouts outside of work and his weekends are spent at tournaments cheering on his son in various competitive sports. But Humphrey also appreciates a good book, usually a recommendation he’s received from friends and family. He also continues to look for more opportunities to get involved in his community.

When he reflects on Veteran’s Day, Humphrey said he sees how lucky he had been in life.

“I consider myself lucky to have had the opportunity to serve,” he said. “There are those who are unaware or forget how fortunate we are in our daily lives and who take for granted the big and little things we are afforded that others around the world are not.

“For me, Veteran’s Day is a time to reflect and appreciate all those who served, and those who paid the ultimate price for something much bigger than themselves. God Bless America!”