NWA Women in Business: Tammy Engle

Residence: Siloam Springs

Education: B.B.A. with pre-law minor, John Brown University; Graduate School of Banking at Colorado

Professional background: Engle began her career in 1998 at Arvest Bank as a part-time teller while attending John Brown University. She would be promoted to a loan assistant position. After that, she spent about 21 years in various roles ranging from credit analyst to loan manager for the Siloam Springs region. Engle in 2019 was promoted to president of the Siloam Springs region, which includes nine locations in Siloam Springs, Gentry and eastern Oklahoma. 

What was your dream job as a kid, and why? I was born in Minnesota and spent my first 10 years on a dairy farm. Those formative years taught me the value of hard work — thanks to a long list of daily chores — but they also made it clear that farming wasn’t in my future. I didn’t have a specific “dream job,” but I always imagined myself moving to a big city. It’s taken a little time, but Northwest Arkansas is becoming that city for me — full of energy, potential and the kind of community I dreamed of being part of.

What inspired you to pursue the career you are in? When I took a part-time teller position, I saw it simply as a way to earn money while getting through college. But life has a beautiful way of surprising you. As the saying goes, “Sometimes the most unexpected paths lead us exactly where we’re meant to be.” What I found at Arvest Bank wasn’t just a job; it’s been so much more than that. I often tell people that “I’ve grown up at Arvest.” I recognized the potential for growth, not only professionally but personally. I’ve spent over 30 years at Arvest, and I’m incredibly grateful to be part of an organization that truly cares about its associates, customers and the communities we call home. Every day, I have the privilege of helping others achieve their financial goals, and that’s something I never take for granted.

What advice can you offer to women who want a career in your industry? Looking back on the last 30 years, I’ve learned countless lessons, but one of the most important is this: Be confident in your voice, and don’t be afraid to use it. Speak up, even when it feels uncomfortable. Also, build a strong network of people who support you, both personally and professionally. And perhaps most important, give yourself grace. You can do a lot, but you don’t have to do it all. No one expects perfection. That’s an expectation that we put on ourselves. What matters is showing up, staying curious and lifting others as you climb.

You stay busy professionally. How do you take care of yourself and maintain good mental health? For me, exercise is a key component of taking care of myself physically and mentally. I start almost every day in my garage gym, and I make exercise a priority. It’s like any other “meeting” on my calendar. If I get out of my routine, I feel it. 

What are some of the leadership skills that helped you move up in your organization? Adaptability and a willingness to learn have been critical. The banking industry and leadership continue to evolve, and I’ve had to evolve with it. Whether it was learning new technology, embracing new roles, or shifting my mindset, staying curious and being open to growth has made all the difference.

What do you do to relax when not working? Most of my free time is spent with family and close friends. My husband, John, and I enjoy walking, riding our bikes on the greenway, and eating at many of the great restaurants in NWA.

I wish I knew how to … what? Play the cello.

What’s the next big personal or career challenge you plan to take on? We’re expecting our first grandchild in a few months. Challenge accepted! I will do my best to properly spoil this little one.