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Community First Credit Union CEO Embraces Change and Growth
Scott Johnson discusses the credit union's merger, technology, and the future of the industry.
Published on Feb. 23, 2026
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Scott Johnson, CEO and president of Santa Rosa-based Community First Credit Union, discusses the credit union's recent merger with Vocality Community Credit Union, the importance of technology and innovation, and the ongoing consolidation in the credit union industry. Johnson emphasizes the need to focus on members and communities, while also adapting to changing consumer preferences and the increasing role of AI in financial services.
Why it matters
The credit union industry is facing significant changes, including the need to invest heavily in technology and the ongoing consolidation of smaller institutions. Community First Credit Union's approach to growth, technology, and member service provides insights into how credit unions can navigate these challenges and continue to serve their local communities.
The details
Community First Credit Union recently finalized a merger with Vocality Community Credit Union, which Johnson says will allow the combined institution to better serve its members through improved products, services, and technology. Johnson notes that credit unions are facing increasing pressure to invest in digital banking and other technologies, which can be challenging for smaller institutions. He believes that mergers and partnerships will continue to be a trend in the industry as credit unions seek to achieve the scale necessary to compete.
- Community First Credit Union was founded in 1959.
- The merger with Vocality Community Credit Union was finalized in 2025.
- The credit union industry has seen the number of credit unions decline from approximately 10,000 to a little more than 4,000 over the past 25 years.
The players
Scott Johnson
CEO and president of Community First Credit Union.
Community First Credit Union
A credit union based in Santa Rosa, California that recently merged with Vocality Community Credit Union.
Vocality Community Credit Union
A credit union that merged with Community First Credit Union in 2025.
What they’re saying
“Every year a couple hundred credit unions disappear. He predicts this trend to continue for at least another decade.”
— Scott Johnson, CEO and president of Community First Credit Union (pressdemocrat.com)
“I think there will always be a time and place for in person conversations and personal services.”
— Scott Johnson, CEO and president of Community First Credit Union (pressdemocrat.com)
What’s next
Community First Credit Union will continue to focus on being a trusted financial partner in its communities by offering outstanding rates, products, and services. The credit union will also remain engaged in industry advocacy to navigate the changing regulatory landscape.
The takeaway
As the credit union industry faces consolidation and the increasing importance of technology, Community First Credit Union's approach of prioritizing member and community needs, while also adapting to change, provides a model for how credit unions can thrive in the years ahead.
