HFG TRUST - Key Persons


Aaron McGaughey

Job Titles:
  • Wealth Planner

Allison Smith

Job Titles:
  • Senior Client Service Consultant

Amanda Jones

Job Titles:
  • Business Banker
With more than a decade in commercial banking before joining the Community First team in January, 2018, Amanda brings a level of commitment to helping business owners increase their cash flow and equity that is unparalleled. Amanda's expertise and focus includes working with contractors, real estate investors with portfolios comprised of multiple properties, and high-net-worth clientele with numerous business interests, as well as engineering, medical and other professional service providers. Amanda is dedicated to serving her clients and community with personalized lending solutions and the attention to detail they expect and deserve.

Andrew Bellon

Job Titles:
  • Private Banking Relationship Manager
A former branch bank manager, Andrew joined the HFG team in 2020 with over 7 years of experience in the client service industry. Today, he acts as the liaison between our organization's business lines to ensure our Private Banking clients receive the products and services that will best meet their needs. As a subject matter expert, he is passionate about sharing his industry knowledge and educating new clients on the value of customized financial solutions. The son of a union employee, Andrew spent his formative years moving between Oregon, California, Tennessee, and Michigan before settling in the Tri-Cities. Now a busy dad of two, Andrew has traded his free time working on cars for quality time with his young daughters.

Anthony Smith

Anthony worked in the financial industry in New York City and Seattle for 16 years before coming back home to the Tri-Cities. He joined the HFG Trust and Community First Bank family in 2019 as a Financial Advisor and Bond Portfolio Manager. His academic accomplishments include a business degree from the University of Washington, the CFA charter, and the CFP® mark. Anthony stays involved in the community by coaching youth sports and teaching for Junior Achievement at local high schools.

Antoinette Burnside

Job Titles:
  • Product Manager
A veteran marketing professional with over 30 years' experience, Antoinette's expertise spans from project management and business development to advertising and strategic planning. Having held executive-level positions in both the banking and healthcare industries, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her position as our organization's Product Manager. Today, Antoinette plays a key role in supporting our clients as they navigate our suite of products and services. Antoinette spent her formative years in New England before eventually settling in Washington state. In her spare time, she enjoys riding horses, camping, and exercising her creative mind via art and sewing.

Ben Messinger

Ben was the first advisor to join our founder, Ty Haberling. Ben came to HFG as a new graduate of Eastern Washington University where he majored in finance and minored in economics. He joined HFG in 1997 and has helped clients navigate the three largest market declines since the great depression. Through HFG's early years Ben wore many hats including Financial Advisor, Marketing Director, IT Director, and Vice President. As a senior advisor of over 20 years, Ben enjoys working with clients across a broad spectrum of professions and lifestyles. Outside of the office, Ben served as a Boy Scouts of America volunteer for over a decade and served two terms as a director on the Kennewick School Board. In his spare time he has competed as a member of the Washington State rifle team, and in the 2019 National Matches achieved the distinction of President's Hundred Rifleman-the honorary rifle team of the President of the United States. Ben's greatest loves are his bride of over 25 years and their three children. He also enjoys science, the outdoors, exploring, and building things.

Brenda Bravo

Job Titles:
  • Branch Manager, Pasco
Brenda brings nearly 16 years of experience in the banking industry to her role as Pasco Branch Manager. As a Tri-Cities native, Brenda is passionate about giving back to the community she calls home and is committed to providing each client with customized financial solutions. When Brenda isn't working she enjoys spending time with her husband of 20 years, her two children, shopping and traveling.

Brent Schafer

Brent Schafer joined HFG in October 2018 after graduating from the University of Washington, where he balanced the life of a student athlete while attaining a degree in Biology. Brent grew up in Kennewick and graduated from Southridge High School as valedictorian of his class. He began his career as a Wealth Planner, assisting advisors with financial plan preparation and portfolio analysis. In 2021 Brent attained his Certified Financial Planning™ designation, the standard of excellence in the financial planning industry. Brent is now taking on clients as a financial planner. Today he serves as our Wealth Planning Manager, leading the firm's team of young financial professionals to better serve our clients. Brent finds himself driving back and forth to Spokane often because his wife, Joslyn, is currently enrolled in Physician Assistant school at MedEx Spokane. When there is time, they love to golf in the summer and snowboard in the winter.

Bruce Ratchford

Job Titles:
  • Board Member, Apollo Mechanical, Inc
In 1981, with a decade of experience and expertise in sheet metal, mechanical design and business management, Bruce had the vision to start a local sheet metal business. 10 years later, Apollo Inc was founded and operations began. Over 37 years later his legacy continues and his company now consists of over 1800 employees and has expanded its markets across the US and internationally. As founder and entrepreneur of a local business, Bruce brings vision, expertise and business acumen to the Board of Directors. Bruce has served on the Board since the bank was founded in 1997.

Cameron Stephens

Job Titles:
  • Director of Commercial Banking
As our Director of Commercial Banking, Cameron oversees the day-to-day operations of our commercial lending department, bringing with him nearly 20 years' experience in the finance industry. Initially beginning his career in retail banking, he later transitioned to commercial lending in 2014 before going on to join Community First Bank in 2020. Today, his focus is on building a strong team while ensuring our lenders and clients are set up for success. Originally from St. George, UT, Cameron -who now calls the Tri-Cities "home" -is an alumnus of Utah Tech University and holds an MBA from Southern Utah University. Outside of the office, he can be found rooting on his favorite football team alongside his family, or on the field where he shares his love for the sport as a coach for local high school athletes.

Cassandra Arey

Job Titles:
  • Business Banker
Cassandra returns to Community First Bank, this time as a business banker, with 10 years of banking experience, much of which she spent as an analyst. She utilizes this experience to assist clients in finding the right product for their situation. She is committed to working with clients of all sizes to find the right solutions to ensure their long-term success and allow them to focus on what they are passionate about, their business. Cassandra and her husband got married in 2020, and they enjoy traveling, as well as relaxing at home with their Great Danes. She is an avid reader, and she loves cooking and watching sports.

Cody Beaumont

Job Titles:
  • CFP
  • CFP® Financial Advisor

Craig A. Scott - CIO

Job Titles:
  • Chief Information Officer
Born and raised in the Tri-Cities, Craig Scott graduated from Washington State University (go Cougs!) with his master's degree in IT management before joining the Community First Bank & HFG Trust team in 2018 as our Director of IT & Facilities. Today, with over 15 years of experience, Craig leads our IT & Facilities team in their strategic objectives, continuously pushing our organization to be leaders in the areas of IT security, infrastructure, and innovation. When he is not in the office, Craig enjoys fly-fishing on the water, all things aviation, and practicing his swing on the golf course.

Danielle King

Job Titles:
  • Director Branch Banking
With more than 12 years of experience in banking, Danielle King is passionate about serving her clients and community in her role as Director of Branch Banking. Danielle began her career in banking while in high school as a Teller and later Branch Manager in her school's sponsored branch. Since then she has held Senior Personal Banker and Relationship Banker positions at Community First Bank. Her expertise and focus is in bank operations, personal lending, and is a Certified Health Savings Professional (CHSP). She truly believes that leading a team that provides exceptional client service is the most rewarding part of her career. In her spare time outside of work she enjoys snowboarding and spending time with her family.

Darrick Dietrich

Job Titles:
  • Board Member, Basin Disposal, Inc.
  • President and Owner of Basin Disposal Inc
As president and owner of Basin Disposal Inc, Darrick understands the importance of operating a strong, local, multigenerational business. Basin Disposal was founded in 1941 and spans 3 generations. With a philosophy to serve and partner with the communities they serve, Darrick's company philosophy aligns with Community First Banks' values. Darrick has served on the Board of Directors since 2012 and brings a unique and valuable perspective to the board.

David Doak

Job Titles:
  • Business Banker
David brings over 25 years of experience in the business and mortgage lending industry to his role as Vice President and Commercial Lender. He is committed to providing a seamless lending experience for all of his clients by providing constant communication throughout the process. As a former credit analyst, David understands the approval process and prioritizes being available and accessible to his clients as they navigate through the lending process. David specializes in Commercial Real Estate Loans, Residential Construction Loans, Equipment Financing and Lines of Credit. He and his wife, Marlo enjoy spending time with their two dog children, golfing, bowling, and the great outdoors.

Derek Robinson

Job Titles:
  • Mortgage Consultant
  • Mortgage Loan Officer
Derek is a seasoned Mortgage Loan Officer, native to the Tri-Cities area, who specializes in a full range of home lending services, including purchase, refinance, and construction loans in all 50 states. He is knowledgeable in numerous loan programs, including, but not limited to, Federal Housing Authority (FHA), United State Department of Agricultural (USDA), First-Time Home Buyers, Downpayment Assistance Program (DAP), and conventional financing terms. Derek is committed to providing a personalized service throughout the lending process, establishing a partnership with clients to create a positive homebuying experience. Derek and his wife of over 25 years have two grown children. They spend a lot of time outdoors hiking, white water rafting, fishing, or finding a beach to put their toes in the sand. Contact Derek today with any home financing questions or to start your journey towards homeownership.

Dora Castaneda

Job Titles:
  • Mortgage Consultant
With over 25 years of home lending experience, I am committed to providing a great client lending experience for all types of home buyers. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer, wanting to build your dream home with a custom construction loan, moving up to a bigger home, downsizing, or purchasing your first rental or investment home, I will provide you with the personalized service and attention to detail that you deserve. My expertise includes FHA, VA, Conventional, USDA, Custom Construction, Down Payment Assistance Programs and Portfolio Loan options. I am committed to helping YOU reach your goal of homeownership. When I am not working, you will find me spending time with my family, trail running and watching sports - Go Seattle Mariners!

Drew Westermeyer - COO

Job Titles:
  • Director of Operations
Drew is our lead operational problem solver in his role as HFG Trust's Director of Operations. A 4th generation Kennewick resident, Drew spent his high school years as a Kennewick Lion before attending Gonzaga University in Spokane. After four years as a Bulldog, Drew graduated in 2011 with summa cum laude honors and a double major in accounting and finance. Out of school, Drew moved to Seattle and joined KPMG, a Big 4 public accounting firm, where he attained his CPA license and specialized in auditing Fortune 500 clients. With a desire to broaden his skillset, Drew left accounting to work under Amazon's eCommerce Platform Finance team where he helped manage $1.5 billion in annual cloud computing infrastructure expenses. In 2016, he returned home to the Tri-Cities and joined HFG Trust, the site of his first internship over 10 years prior. Drew's big company experiences and passion for operational excellence and client service brings a unique perspective to the office. Happily married, Drew and his wife Melissa enjoy spending time with their twin boys, Carter and Mason. Drew is a college sports fanatic rooting on his Washington State Cougars during football season and his Gonzaga Bulldogs during basketball's March Madness. Around the office you can find our resident coffee connoisseur sipping on a homemade blend or enjoying a round of golf on the weekends.

Eric Pearson - CEO

Job Titles:
  • Chief Executive Officer
After graduating college, Eric was not committed to any particular career path. Eric's father had retired six months earlier when the community bank he had worked at for 33 years sold to a large commercial bank. Still having a number of contacts at that bank, Eric took a job there and began following a career in banking. After progressing through the ranks, Eric began to realize the difference between a large corporate enterprise and a local community bank. As he was passionate about building relationships and supporting small businesses, organizations and his community. Accordingly, he decided to make the move to Community First Bank as part of a succession plan to become its President and CEO. Over 25 years after starting his journey, Eric remains committed to the client and the community banking experience. He is involved in a variety of local organizations and is on the board of directors for the Boys and Girls Club, TriDec, Trios Trustee Board and the Washington Banker's Association.

Evelyn Ramos

Job Titles:
  • Wealth Planner

Forrest Alexander

Job Titles:
  • Business Development Director
A former business owner and vested partner at one of the Tri-Cities' leading office equipment, software, and IT services suppliers, Forrest joined the HFG Trust team as our Business Development Director in 2019. As a graduate of Washington State University and Tri-Cities local, he brings two decades of experience working with local businesses in our community, including: business development, client relations, and strategic planning. More recently, he passed the Series 7 and 66 exams, giving him a broad understanding of financial planning, investment risk, taxation, equity, debt instruments, retirement plans, suitability and interactions with clients. Whether he is advocating for kids living with Type 1 Diabetes, working with local business leaders, or spending time with his blended family of 6, building and fostering community remains a priority for Forrest, both professionally and personally. When he is not in the office, he can be found perfecting his swing on the golf course, sipping on wine, or planning a trip to his next travel destination.

Heather Lee

Job Titles:
  • Mortgage Consultant
With over 19 years of home lending experience, Heather's attention to detail and focus on customer service sets her apart in her field. Whether they are a first-time homebuyer or looking to invest in multiple properties, she is committed to help individuals achieve their home ownership goals. Her approach of listening to your needs and educating you on the home buying process ensure that you have a smooth, stress-free experience. Her clients appreciate her dedication to their success and her ability to guide them through the process, from start to finish, seamlessly. As a Navy Veteran, she has a unique perspective and understanding of the needs of active-duty military members and veterans when it comes to purchasing a home while utilizing the benefit of their VA Home Loan, that they earned, while selflessly serving our country. Outside of the office, Heather is devoted to the Tri-City community. She is a board member of Leadership Tri-Cities, is committed to the Columbia Basin Veterans Center, and volunteers her time to 2 nd Harvest, among others.

J. Tyler Haberling

Job Titles:
  • Staff Member

Jacob Marcusen

Job Titles:
  • Client Services Manager

Jamin Clark

Job Titles:
  • Mortgage Department Manager
With over 20 years of experience in the Mortgage industry, Jamin brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the Community First Bank team. Jamin is a Tri Cities native and Washington State University graduate. He is passionate about working for a locally-owned bank and serving the surrounding communities with their home loan needs. Jamin and his wife have three children who are active in a variety of sports. He enjoys coaching youth sports and golf.

Jared Waibel

Job Titles:
  • Branch Manager, Connell

Jennie Prince

Job Titles:
  • Client Services Consultant

Jennifer Pautz

Job Titles:
  • Personal Banker, Kennewick

Jesus Melendez

Job Titles:
  • Business Banker

Jim Arneson - COO

Job Titles:
  • Chief Operating Officer

Jowed Hadeed

Job Titles:
  • Consultant

K. Paul Hansen

Job Titles:
  • CFP

Karen R Leiby

Job Titles:
  • Personal Banker, Pasco

Katherine Smith

Job Titles:
  • Personal Banker, Kennewick

Lee Adams

Job Titles:
  • Chairman of the Board, Adams Enterprises

Liset Ouderkirk

Job Titles:
  • Personal Banker, Kennewick

Luis Campos

Job Titles:
  • Mortgage Consultant

Margarita Gourley

Job Titles:
  • Branch Manager, Richland

Martha Gonzalez

Job Titles:
  • Client Services Consultant

Mary Ann Goebel

Job Titles:
  • Trust Administrator

Matthew Backlund

Job Titles:
  • Chief Lending Officer

Max Lucas

Job Titles:
  • Mortgage Consultant

Melissa Callaway

Job Titles:
  • Director of Credit Administration

Monique Rojo

Job Titles:
  • Mortgage Consultant

Nicholas Haberling

Job Titles:
  • Partnership Advisor

Nicholas Hengl

Job Titles:
  • Financial Advisor
  • Member of the Roseburg Team

Nicole Berg

Job Titles:
  • Board Member, Berg Farms, LLC

Olivia Ransier

Job Titles:
  • Client Services Representative, Personal Banker

Patty Pruett

Job Titles:
  • Personal Banker, Connell

Philip Murr

Job Titles:
  • Mortgage Consultant

Rachael Gonzales

Job Titles:
  • Relationship Banker, Kennewick

Rebecca Martindale

Job Titles:
  • Wealth Planner

Rick Pullen

Job Titles:
  • Construction & Consumer Banker

Rikki Spears

Job Titles:
  • Personal Banker, Richland

Russ Prince

Job Titles:
  • Credit Manager

Ryan Ratchford

Job Titles:
  • Board Member, Apollo Mechanical, Inc

Samantha Barham

Job Titles:
  • Client Service Consultant

Sebastian Vijil

Job Titles:
  • Mortgage Consultant

Shaina Anderson

Job Titles:
  • Client Services Consultant

Staci Leduc - CHRO

Job Titles:
  • Human Resources Director

Tom Coyne

Job Titles:
  • Mortgage Department Manager

Tracy Henry

Job Titles:
  • Branch Manager, Kennewick

Tyler Pearson

Job Titles:
  • Wealth Planner