s one of the top twenty credit unions in the country, Anchorage-based Global Credit Union has made a profound impact on Alaska’s financial landscape. Global’s community-focused financial services, unwavering commitment to its customers (known as members), and meticulous growth strategy make it excel as a member-owned cooperative.

Global is dedicated to improving the lives of its members and the broader community. “We work every day to put people before profit,” says President and CEO Geoff Lundfelt.

Since its inception, Global has undergone a significant transformation. Previously known as Alaska USA Federal Credit Union, it acquired Spokane, Washington-based Global Credit Union in 2023. Then Alaska USA FCU—founded as Alaskan Air Depot Federal in 1948—changed its name to Global Federal Credit Union to better reflect its expanding reach and continued aspirations to be a world-class provider of financial services to members no matter where they are.

The credit union had been employing growth strategies outside Alaska since the mid-80s, but its merger and acquisition activities accelerated in the last few years. The name change was one of the primary drivers of that growth. The strategic rebranding has allowed Global to attract new members and execute acquisitions more effectively.

Take, for example, Global’s recent purchase of Renton, Washington-based First Financial Northwest Bank. “I’m not sure we would have been considered a viable option for that bank had our name been Alaska USA versus Global Credit Union,” Lundfelt says. “With retaining the business and employees that were coming along with that acquisition, the name itself just made that a lot easier.

With twenty-seven branches in Alaska—and another two expected by next year—Global has solidified its presence in the state’s financial sector. But its influence extends well beyond Alaska’s borders. Global has more than $13 billion in assets, 2,000 employees—half of whom are in Alaska—and 78 branches across its network. It also has locations in Washington, California, Arizona, and Idaho, along with three branches on US military installations in Italy. The credit union also owns and operates Global Insurance Brokers in Alaska, Arizona, California, Idaho, and Washington, and Global Credit Union Home Loans in Alaska, Arizona, Idaho, and Washington.

Additionally, Global operates a member service center that employs more than 200 US-based staff who provide 24/7 support across various time zones. This allows users to obtain personalized assistance when they need it. “While digital and mobile are great offerings and can do the bulk of transaction activity, every once in a while you need that personal touch or have questions that a computer can’t answer,” Lundfelt says.

Global provides financial services to 775,000 members, with 300,000 of those residing in Alaska. As an indication of its geographic reach, the credit union’s members—many of whom are military veterans and expatriates—have physical addresses in every congressional district in the United States and in twenty-four countries. In Alaska, Global operates in fifteen distinct communities, ensuring that its commitment to service extends statewide.

As part of its dedication to community service, Global supports locally based charitable causes. One of its prime efforts is raising money to alleviate food insecurity through the annual Cash for Cans program. In addition to combatting food insecurity, Global contributes to numerous nonprofits across Alaska. These organizations focus on various issues, from military and veterans’ support to children’s welfare. “Whether it’s in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Kodiak, Kenai, Juneau, or Bethel, we try to be a very meaningful part of the community,” Lundfelt says.

Global is constantly working to evolve its digital ecosystem to enhance overall member experience and improve efficiency. This includes leveraging business process automation and AI to streamline back-office support and assist frontline staff in providing accurate and timely information to members. “Most of our interactions occur through the digital and mobile channels,” Lundfelt says. “So, we’re making sure that for money movement and money management we have tools that are both cutting-edge and reliable for our members.”

In addition, the credit union is making significant strides in supporting small businesses in Alaska and the Lower 48. With nearly $900 million in small business deposits, Global has expanded its efforts to provide essential financial tools that enable companies to thrive in today’s challenging economic environment. This includes offering transparent, low, and often no-fee pricing, along with enhanced service and convenience benefits. Lundfelt explains, “We are accelerating the number of tools available to help small businesses be successful.”

While other companies are cutting back, Global is constantly making investments to benefit its stakeholders. Its enhancements in small business offerings, branch services, and technology give the credit union a strong competitive advantage. Global’s commitment to its members, its employees, and the community has not gone unnoticed. Recently, it received the 2024 Small Business Administration Alaska 504 Third Party Lender of the Year award; was recognized by Forbes magazine as one of the best in-state credit unions in Alaska, Washington, California, and Arizona; and made Forbes’ list of America’s Best Midsize Employers 2025. “I’m incredibly proud of our team members; their hard work has earned us recognition that highlights our commitment to service and excellence,” Lundfelt says.

Global will continue to focus on modernizing its branches to enhance member interactions. These branch transformations—which are reflected in its new Juneau branch—are designed to create a more open environment that facilitates deeper conversations and relationships with members. For example, members could receive in-branch assistance with auto or homeowners insurance from a licensed agent. In fact, all Global branches have at least one licensed personal-lines insurance representative who can provide quotes for multiple carriers and help members find suitable coverage at competitive prices.

Meeting the broad needs of members helps reinforce Global’s leadership in financial services. Lundfelt says, “This significant development helps us continue being a trusted provider of all financial services—to support our members’ global financial picture.”