Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
References
Timeline
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Jessica Akers

Delta

Summary

Dynamic Commercial Loan Specialist with proven expertise in grant program management at USDA Rural Development. Skilled in stakeholder engagement and financial analysis, I successfully expanded funding awareness and supported job-creating initiatives. Recognized for building strong relationships and delivering impactful training, I am committed to driving growth and enhancing community support.

Overview

12
12
years of professional experience

Work History

Commercial Loan Specialist

USDA Rural Development
Delta
05.2021 - 06.2025
  • Administered commercial loan and grant programs, including the Intermediary Relending Program (IRP), Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program (RMAP), Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant (REDLG), Value-Added Producer Grant (VAPG), and Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG).
  • Evaluated VAPG and RBDG applications for eligibility and completeness, collaborated with applicants to address deficiencies, and ensured accurate preparation of Grant documents and award packages.
  • Provided technical assistance and program guidance to Rural businesses, economic development organizations, and intermediaries throughout the application and servicing lifecycle.
  • Conducted outreach and relationship-building with stakeholders across Rural Colorado to expand awareness of USDA funding opportunities and support job-creating initiatives.
  • Monitored Grant and loan compliance, maintained accurate documentation in agency systems, and provided ongoing support to funding recipients on reporting and servicing requirements.
  • Created and distributed clear program guidance, templates, and servicing tools to improve consistency and transparency for intermediaries and grantees.
  • Led training sessions and one-on-one support for partners using the Lender Interactive Network Connection (LINC) system, and served as a point of contact for troubleshooting and program updates.

Ambassador Volunteer

Chamber Of Commerce
Delta
10.2020 - 04.2021
  • Engaged in community outreach to aid program mission centered on community support and enrichment.
  • Developed and deepened partnerships with related organizations with similar missions.
  • Met with other volunteers and program leaders to discuss new service opportunities.

Business Specialist Banker

Wells Fargo
Delta
04.2013 - 04.2021
  • Set, enforced and optimized internal policies to maintain efficiency and responsiveness to demands.
  • Consistently built long-term relationships with existing and new customers.
  • Conducted research to identify customer needs.
  • Developed growth strategies based on customer satisfaction and financial gain.
  • Completed special procedures for customers such as ordering new checks, stopping payments or investigating identity theft.
  • Performed loan servicing functions to check compliance with applicable terms and conditions.
  • Offered competitive commercial banking solutions and retail financing options.
  • Worked with clients to develop financial planning strategies and solutions through evaluation of finances.
  • Built and deepened productive relationships with prospective and competitive customers to drive sustained growth.
  • Assisted customers with setting up or closing accounts, completing loan applications and signing up for new services.
  • Executed customer transactions, including deposits, withdrawals, money orders and checks.

Education

GED -

Alabama Community College System
Montgomery, AL
08-2008

Skills

  • Teamwork
  • Planning and Coordination
  • Computer Skills
  • Proficient in 10-key
  • Financial Transaction Expertise
  • Adaptability
  • Relationship building
  • Leadership skills
  • Reliability
  • Financial Analysis Aptitude
  • Good listening skills
  • Detail-oriented
  • Excellent work ethic
  • Commercial loan administration
  • Grant program management
  • Stakeholder engagement
  • Training and development
  • Documentation management
  • Portfolio management
  • Marketing
  • Self motivation

Accomplishments

  • Extra Effort Award

USDA Rural Development-FY 2021

Recognized for overcoming exceptional job-related challenges and consistently providing excellent customer service to internal and external stakeholders.

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Commercial Loan Specialist

USDA Rural Development
05.2021 - 06.2025

Ambassador Volunteer

Chamber Of Commerce
10.2020 - 04.2021

Business Specialist Banker

Wells Fargo
04.2013 - 04.2021

GED -

Alabama Community College System
Jessica Akers