The credit union was state-chartered in 1931 as Trane Employees Credit Union in La Crosse, WI. Over the years, services expanded well beyond the La Crosse, WI, area and membership eligibility expanded to include more than Trane employees. In 2005, the credit union was renamed Altra Federal Credit Union. The name was chosen to reflect the increased diversity of our membership while honoring our history by combining the words alliance, Trane, allegiance, and tradition. Today, Altra serves members in all 50 states and locations worldwide.

While many of our members refer to us as “their bank,” we’re not a bank. We offer the same products and services as a bank, but our structure is different. Altra is a not-for-profit financial cooperative and each member owns one ‘share’ of the Credit Union; no member has more influence than another. During the Great Depression, Credit Unions introduced themselves to America using the slogan “Not for profit, not for charity, but for service.” That principle still applies today because we exist to serve you. Management decisions are based on what’s best for our membership – not what will generate the most profit. You, as a member-owner, reap the benefits of membership and strengthen the Credit Union through your participation. Member participation helps determine the products, services, rates and fees we offer. As an owner, it’s in your best interest to use as many of your Credit Union’s services as possible. Participation can also mean inviting friends and family to join the Credit Union. If you’ve been satisfied with our products and services, please tell others who may be looking for a locally managed, safe and sound financial. Altra is in business to benefit our Members’ by providing competitive products and services while still keeping our rates and fees low. Altra is dedicated to financial literacy education for members to help them make better decisions. The primary concern is always for the Members’ financial success. It’s important to understand Altra’s cooperative structure, principles and purpose, because those are key reasons why we are safe, sound and solvent today.