Workforce transformation: About OCCU's 32-hour workweek

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OCCU  -  10.29.2026

You may have seen or heard news about OCCU’s 32-hour workweek. It’s a new approach to how our teams work, but our commitment to members is not changing. Here’s what we’re doing, why we’re doing it and what you can expect from us along the way.  

 

What is OCCU's 32-hour workweek?

By the end of 2027, OCCU plans to transition most of its nearly 700 employees to a four-day, 32-hour workweek while maintaining full base pay and benefits. OCCU is not closing services for an extra day, changing business hours, or relying on blanket staffing increases to make the model work. The goal is also not to compress the same workload into fewer hours. Instead, our teams will redesign how work gets done by eliminating unnecessary work, improving processes, and using technology more effectively. 

Why is OCCU making this change?

We're always looking for ways to improve both our employee and member experience. 

Our 32-hour workweek is part of a broader effort to rethink how work gets done. By simplifying processes, reducing unnecessary tasks and investing in better tools, employees can spend more time focused on the work that matters most: serving our members. 

Will this change affect my access to OCCU services?

No. Maintaining reliable service for members is a top priority. 

Members will continue to receive the same trusted service and personal attention they've come to expect from OCCU. 

Will OCCU’s phone, chat or digital support hours change?

No. OCCU’s phone, chat and digital support channels will continue to be available as they are today. As teams transition to new schedules, we’re focused on maintaining reliable service and making sure members can get help when they need it. 

Will branches be closed an extra day each week?

No. OCCU is not closing branches or reducing service days. Employees will have different schedules, but we will continue meeting member needs and maintaining service hours. 

Will I have longer wait times or reduced support?

That's not what we've experienced so far. 

As we’ve tested and expanded the 32-hour workweek, we’ve focused on maintaining and improving service levels. We have, and will continue, to monitor service quality, response times, and member impact to ensure members receive the support they need. 

Will this affect how quickly loans, mortgages or account requests are processed?

Our goal is to maintain strong service and response times across all areas, including lending and account support. We’ll continue monitoring service quality, response times and member impact to make sure members receive timely help and clear communication. 

What happens if I need help on an employee’s day off?

You’ll still have access to OCCU support. Team schedules are designed so work continues and members are supported, even when individual employees have different days off. 

How can employees work fewer hours and still get the same amount of work done?

The key is working differently, not simply working less. 

Teams review processes, eliminate inefficiencies, improve collaboration and use technology to reduce manual work. The focus is on achieving strong results rather than measuring success by the number of hours worked. 

Is technology replacing OCCU employees?

No. Technology helps automate some routine or manual tasks, allowing employees to spend more time helping members, solving problems and providing personalized guidance. Our people remain at the heart of the member experience. 

Is OCCU reducing staff because of the 32-hour workweek?

No. The purpose of the 32-hour workweek is to create a better way of working, not to reduce service or replace employees. Our focus remains on supporting our employees and delivering an exceptional member experience. 

Is this a temporary pilot or a permanent change?

OCCU is taking a gradual, measured approach. We’re expanding the 32-hour workweek over time as teams show they can maintain strong service, productivity and member support. By the end of 2027, OCCU plans to transition most of its nearly 700 employees to a four-day, 32-hour workweek. 

Will all OCCU employees move to a 32-hour workweek?

Most employees are expected to transition over time, but the approach may look different depending on each team’s role and member service needs. We’re working to make sure the change works for employees and members.  

Note: The 32-hour workweek transition does not apply to executive team members. 

How do you know the program is working?

We use data and feedback to evaluate every team that participates. 

Before a team transitions, we review service levels, productivity and member impact. After the transition, we continue monitoring performance to ensure members receive the high-quality service they expect.

What does this mean for me as a member?

Our goal is simple: 

You'll continue to receive the trusted service, thoughtful solutions and personal attention you expect from OCCU. 

The 32-hour workweek is about helping our employees work more effectively so they can stay focused on supporting your financial well-being. 

Where can I learn more?

We’ll continue sharing updates as we expand the program and learn from participating teams. Our approach is measured, intentional and guided by one question: How can we serve members well while creating a better way to work? 

Is OCCU financially strong?

Yes. OCCU remains a strong, well-capitalized credit union, and your money is safe with us. Member deposits are federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration up to $250,000, giving you the same kind of protection you expect from any federally insured financial institution. 

The bottom line

The 32-hour workweek isn't about doing less. It's about finding better ways to serve members, support employees and prepare OCCU for the future. Members can continue to expect the same trusted service and personal attention they've always received from OCCU.