Meet Hanna Droessler, Client Services Specialist at Hudson River Trading and fresh addition to STAC, having joined just one year ago. For Hanna, joining Stac was all about harnessing the power of connection. She saw an early-career opportunity to engage with diverse industry professionals and hasn't looked back since. But it doesn't stop there. Hanna's not just a member; she's a catalyst for change. She spearheaded the launch of STAC Young Professionals, driven by a desire to create a supportive environment for emerging talent. Hanna's journey is proof that networking isn't just about who you know—it's about the impact you make.

Why did you join STAC?
I joined STAC because I was excited for the opportunity so early in my career to connect with industry professionals from different backgrounds and experiences. STAC has helped me meet so many interesting and kind people, and learn more than I otherwise could have. STAC strikes a great balance between professional development, charity, and social interests.

You were integral in launching STAC Young Professionals. What was the impetus?
First off, I must give credit to STANY Emerging Leaders for the inspiration! My personal motivation for launching STAC YP stemmed from the desire to create and foster an environment where driven early to mid-career professionals can come together to learn and network with their peers. STAC YP aims to unite security professionals at a similar career stage as well as facilitate mentorship with veterans in the industry. It can sometimes be intimidating to attend industry events, so I hope YP will further an already welcoming community within STAC and the broader industry.

Additionally, it is important to our organization to attract and retain new membership in order to maximize the benefit and impact STAC can have on our industry and overall community. Through targeting and creating a unique value add to a new subset of our membership, we can promote the longevity of the organization.

How will STAC YP help students and securities industry professionals during their early to mid-careers?
STAC YP will offer a platform to expedite the relationship building and industry exposure that is crucial to career development. YP will give participants access to tailored quarterly events and the existing educational events offered by STAC. The breadth and depth of exposure that STAC offers are critical when starting out / advancing your career. You won’t always know what you don’t know, but putting yourself in situations where you will learn and meet new people is the best way to identify and close those gaps, and grow in your career.

What would you tell your younger self just starting your career?
I would tell myself to step up and volunteer for opportunities that come your way. You can always reach out for help or seek information when you're in a new situation, but the learning opportunities will not come back. Helping with the launch of STAC YP has pushed me to fine-tune skills and has allowed me to meet and work with a large part of the STAC Executive and Advisory Board.

Can you share an example of a STAC member who has served as a mentor to you and played a significant role in your professional development?
Jason Schwab has played a pivotal role in my time at STAC. He encouraged me to join the advisory board, step up to launch STAC YP, and has made me feel supported throughout the process by introducing me to his STAC network. Within my role at HRT, Andrew D’Amore has served as an excellent mentor. He is extremely knowledgeable about our industry, he is a hard and honest worker, and has been an outstanding individual to look up to.

How has STAC increased the value you bring to your organization?
STAC has increased my value at my organization by giving me a more holistic understanding of the securities industry. Day to day, it is easy to just focus on your role or piece within your organization, but learning from other STAC members has allowed me to expand my comprehension of the broader system, especially while I am at an early stage in my career. Additionally, STAC’s affiliation with STA national is advantageous in order to stay informed of the political landscape affecting the operations of the industry.

Why are the educational and networking opportunities STAC offers so critical to someone starting out in/looking to advance their career?
Accessing the wide array of experiences provided by STAC is pivotal for both starting and advancing your career. It's impossible to anticipate every unknown, but immersing yourself in opportunities to learn and connect with others is the most effective way to recognize and bridge those gaps, fostering personal and professional growth.

What is your favorite STAC event and why?
My favorite STAC event is the Mid-winter meeting. There are so many panels and events, so every attendee is sure to find something that interests them. Also, it’s exciting to connect with the broader STA community who often travels for the conference.

Who is someone at STAC that you’d recommend new members network with and why?
• Bill Miller has been a great resource to me. He is extremely outgoing, friendly and passionate about helping young people in the industry.
• Ginny Kowalcyzk is dedicated and knowledgeable about STAC events. She is helpful, kind and a great person to meet!
• Lauren Arbid has been such a welcoming STAC member. It is exciting to see an incoming female president and I definitely look up to her!

How do you give back to the Chicago community?
In addition to STAC, I am also a volunteer at PAWS animal shelter!

What’s something other members don’t know about you?
I love hiking and skiing and am trying to visit a new national park every year!