Katie BaileyJoe Thomas, Executive President of Apple Federal Credit Union, continues to elevate the voice of American credit unions on a global scale through his service as Vice Chair and Secretary of the World Council of Credit Unions (WOCCU) Board.
Joe’s credit union journey began in 1985 as a Peace Corps volunteer in Malawi, Africa, where he helped establish and support credit unions across the country. He later joined WOCCU’s development team, serving credit union movements across Africa, the Caribbean, and Eastern Europe.
His leadership within WOCCU reflects a direct connection to the movement’s impact on financial inclusion around the world. Over the past several decades, WOCCU has implemented more than 300 technical assistance programs across 90 countries, often supported through U.S. government funding that multiplies impact through private investment.
“International development has never been about giving without purpose. It is not charity. It is strategy,” said Joe Thomas. “When we invest in financial inclusion, we empower communities to build resilience, reduce instability, and take control of their futures. That creates real and lasting returns for both those communities and the world we all share. This work is essential, and it must continue.”
Joe’s leadership also continues closer to home. He served as Chair of the Virginia Credit Union League Board of Directors and is currently a member of The League’s Board of Directors and previously served on the Credit Union Mortgage Association Board and on the board of America’s Credit Unions (formerly Credit Union National Association).
“Opportunities like WOCCU’s Learning Journeys give our credit union leaders a chance to learn from peers around the world and bring new ideas and inspiration back to their teams,” said Richard J. “Rick” Skaggs, President and CEO of USF Credit Union and Chair of The League Board. “These experiences strengthen leadership, broaden perspective, and help us stay connected to the cooperative principles that guide our work.”
“Joe’s service is a reminder that our movement is global,” said Samantha A.M. Beeler, President of The League of Credit Unions & Affiliates. “His commitment to financial inclusion, innovation, and development reflects the best of what credit unions stand for.”
WOCCU’s Learning Journeys and its annual World Credit Union Conference create pathways for members to see the credit union mission in action across the globe. These experiences strengthen leadership, reinforce cooperation, and build a shared vision for a more financially inclusive future.
In March, The League joined 19 participants from seven credit unions on a Learning Journey to the United Kingdom, hosted in partnership with the Association of British Credit Unions Limited (ABCUL). Over the course of eight days, participants visited Parliament, explored historic cities like London and Oxford, and attended the ABCUL Annual Conference in Leeds. The real impact came from the conversations and connections that unfolded along the way. Participants returned home with fresh perspectives, meaningful relationships, and a renewed sense of purpose rooted in the global credit union movement.
Building on the success of the UK experience, The League is excited to offer another opportunity for meaningful connection and learning. This August, credit union leaders will head to Oregon and Washington for the Pacific Northwest Learning Journey, where they’ll explore some of the most forward-thinking credit unions and innovative companies in the region. The immersive, in-person experience is designed for executives and their guests, with limited spots available.
To learn more, explore upcoming journeys, or secure your spot, visit www.woccu.org, International Partnerships | The League of Credit Unions and Affiliates, or the Pacific Northwest registration page.
