Press Releases

U.S. Senate Federal Credit Union Showcases Innovative AI Use at VMware Explore 2024

Published: September 11, 2024

U.S. Senate Federal Credit Union Showcases Innovative AI Use at VMware Explore 2024

Alexandria, VA, September 2024 — The U.S. Senate Federal Credit Union (USSFCU) stood out at VMware Explore 2024, a global conference held at the Venetian Convention and Expo Center, Las Vegas. The conference, recognized for its emphasis on cloud technology and digital transformation, featured USSFCU’s groundbreaking use of private artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the member experience and streamline banking operations. USSFCU’s presentation showcased how AI is transforming financial services, setting new standards for personalized member interactions, security, and operational efficiency.

Represented by Chief Information Officer Mark Fournier and Senior Systems Engineer Michele Collauto, the USSFCU IT team highlighted our ongoing efforts to harness AI and machine learning to deliver secure, cutting-edge services for our members. The session, titled “US Senate Federal Credit Union Drives Member Experience Innovation with Private AI,” explored how USSFCU integrates VMware Cloud Foundation to streamline cloud operations while ensuring unmatched security and scalability.

One key aspect of USSFCU’s AI approach is its use of Private AI, which ensures that member and employee data remains secure and is never exposed to third parties. “Opposed to other artificial intelligence applications running in the public cloud, our Private AI concept recreates the same powerful features you might experience on popular web platforms—without releasing any private data or intellectual property to the companies that own those portals,” explained Michele Collauto. “Our members and employees will benefit from this new technology, keeping their data safe and sound.” This is particularly relevant in a digital landscape where uploading information to public AI systems often means willingly donating that data, which can be stored and utilized by those companies indefinitely.

“Our members are our priority, and AI is enabling us to provide personalized, real-time financial solutions,” said Mark Fournier. “With VMware Cloud Foundation, we’ve built a secure, private cloud environment that allows us to quickly and efficiently implement AI technologies—whether it's for knowledge-based chatbots assisting staff or delivering financial answers directly to our members across multiple devices. AI in banking helps us automate everyday transactions, streamline loan processing, and proactively identify member needs, ensuring that our services are both intuitive and secure.”

At the conference, USSFCU demonstrated how our AI initiatives are revolutionizing member interactions. Through the power of AI, the credit union is improving member support, automating customer service, and creating innovative applications that simplify the banking experience. Our private AI infrastructure also ensures high-level security for sensitive member data, addressing privacy concerns typically associated with public cloud environments.

“We’re entering a new era where AI isn’t just an add-on—it’s essential for providing the modern financial services that our members expect,” noted Collauto. “From concept to deployment, VMware Cloud Foundation allowed us to get up and running with private AI in just a matter of days, giving us the agility we need to stay ahead.”

VMware Explore 2024, held from August 26–29, attracted leaders from across industries to discuss innovations in cloud technology, AI, and digital transformation. USSFCU’s participation underscores the credit union’s commitment to leading financial technology innovations in the credit union sector.

For more information on USSFCU’s participation at VMware Explore 2024 and to view the full video. To learn more about VMware Private AI, visit VMware Private AI Blog.

Watch Video

About USSFCU

Since 1935, the U.S. Senate Federal Credit Union (USSFCU) has been providing world-class financial stability, security, and service to the Senate and Capitol Hill communities. With $1.6 billion in assets and over 140 paths to membership, USSFCU continues to lead in financial innovation. For more information about membership and services, visit ussfcu.org/joinus to learn more. 

View all press releases

Members' Voice Testimonials

This credit union is the best, I love the customer service and you can't beat the interest rates. I'm happy to be a member of this great credit union.

- James · Locust Grove, GA

The branch manager introduced herself and was extremely helpful. She stated that if there is anything we ever need to please let her know. Very positive experience!

- Larry · Cumberland, MD

Greta was absolutely amazing - as always. She makes me and my parents feel valued and supported. We are forever grateful. [The Credit Union] has been hugely supportive over many years. And we feel known and cared for.

- Eliza · Washington, DC

Long as I have been with the credit union, I haven't had any problems. I also like the protection on my account.

- Charles · Upper Marlboro, MD

My overall experience at the credit union was exceptional. The staff was hospitable offering water, my service was timely and professional and the office was well lit and clean.

- Denise · Washington, DC

As a member for more than 40 years, i have always had great service from the USSFCU and know that they stand behind their great reputation.

- David · Silver Spring, MD

A top rate Credit Union, [I'm] privileged to be part of! Thank you for all you do for our family! USSFCU Credit Union was able to resolve our financial situation - vehicle, personal loans, customer service/recommendations, within 6 months. We belonged to another credit union for over 20 years, with results not even close to comparison. We switched ...

- Manuel · Bowie, MD

Your people and products are amazing. The recent [online banking] overhaul is phenomenal. [I've] been electronic banking since Tele action phone banking - paying bills with my push button landline decades ago. USSFCU is light years ahead of everyone else in terms of ease of use and client experience!

- Misty · Brookings, OR

I have been a member for more than 30 years. I no longer reside in the DC area but continue to bank with USSFCU because of the ease and the customer service.

- Tamra · Denver, CO

I have been a member for over 50 years, and I have always gotten good service with loans, when I had to have service at a branch, and when I needed to have money sent to me from my savings account. The personnel have always been friendly and treated me with respect.

- John · Fort Washington, MD

I especially appreciate being able to quickly speak with someone (not a robot) and that person has always been knowledgeable and helpful.

- Bernard · Richmond, VA

Excellent customer service streamlined and transparent process. The representatives are efficient, knowledgeable, and understanding of the type of loans offered by Credit Union.

- Erwin · Ellicott City, MD

The USSFCU behaves as a credit union ought to behave. The staff works with and for the members, not for a corporate board. Interest rates for a car loan, a home improvement loan, and a mortgage are low and terms are transparent.

- Ruth · Takoma Park, MD

Staff are courteous and friendly to work with. Very knowledgeable about services and products offered or available. Excellent follow-up with customers.

- Jacquelyn · Sanford, FL

I have appreciated USSFCU services for many years since I left my work on Capitol Hill. I have appreciated the occasional webinars on purchasing a home or retirement planning.

- Jamie · Washington, DC

I have been a member since 2006, and have always appreciated the customer service response to any concern or query. In addition, as I have traveled extensively, USSFCU has provided support and access.

- Kathleen · Ukiah, CA

I've had a credit union account for decades, even though I no longer work on Capitol Hill. I now have two accounts. I've been able to do all of our banking remotely, by app or by phone.

- Richard · Washington, DC

I have been a USSFCU member for almost 20 years. There is nowhere else I want my money to be. I always receive excellent service.

- Nicole · Alexandria, VA

I deeply appreciate the stellar service, the proficiency, the professionalism, and the kindness. I am truly honored and grateful to bank with a financial institution that treats customers like family.

- Angela · Alexandria, VA

Read More testimonials.