Sbrega nominated as Central Massachusetts' economy's most influential people
For the second year in a row Tina M. Sbrega is nominated as Central Massachusetts' economy's most influential people.
Tina M. Sbrega
President & CEO
GFA Federal Credit Union, Gardner
Residence: Rindge, NH
College: Roger Williams University
Tina M. Sbrega doesn't lead the largest credit union in Central Massachusetts; with $498 million in assets, GFA ranks No.7 in the region. Yet her commitment to fulfill GFA's founding mission of providing financial service to unbanked populations resonated throughout the state in the last year. In September, GFA became the first - and remains the only - financial institution offering banking services to the legal marijuana industry. The move comes with risk, as marijuana remains classified as an illegal drug federally, but will help businesses and employees of the $1 billion industry earn and spend their money safely. Beyond the marijuana decision, Sbrega has GFA committed to offering competitively priced products, with high-tech, high-touch service philosophy. GFA's better banking team has more than 100 employees dedicated to that mission.
Where is the Central Mass. community headed?
The region will have continued gradual economic development, with Worcester being the epicenter. Economic data, particularly with respect to job growth, has favorable outlook.