Karissa Schlaht, she/her
Director, W by ATB

Karissa is an empathetic leader who creates authentic connections through self-awareness and understanding others from their unique perspective. In her work and life, she inspires women to reach their potential. As Director of W by ATB, Karissa focuses on understanding and empowering women business owners with financial health confidence, removing barriers to provide access to capital, and supporting women to scale their businesses.

Karissa has her Finance Degree (B.Mgt.) from University of Lethbridge & Athabasca University and is accredited through the W by ATB EveryWoman Accreditation Program.

“Growing up in a traditional farming community meant that I didn’t have access to social capital or mentors outside of my own family. My mother was one of very few women who worked outside of the home. Interestingly, I chose a profession where I’ve often been the only woman in the room; the only woman at the table. While it hasn’t always been easy, I’ve made a fulfilling career out of listening to the stories of business owners and leaders. These stories have sown a yearning inside of me to make banking better for women who have traditionally been underserved. W by ATB is part of ATB’s - and my - commitment to leading the financial industry in support of women owned and led businesses and organizations.”

Learn more about W by ATB and the W by ATB Everywoman Accreditation Program.