First Interstate Bank announced it is raising the minimum hourly wage for all employees from $15 to $17 an hour, representing a pay boost for 64% of its workers, the Corridor Business Journal reported. The compensation changes will be effective Oct. 1. “It is my sincere hope that these wage increases not only provide financial relief, but reinforce how important our people are to us,” said Kevin Riley, president and CEO of First Interstate Bank. Based in Billings, Mont., the bank also offers a 6% employer-matched 401(k), child care assistance program, exercise reimbursement program and student debt employer repayment program. The former Great Western Bank merged with First Interstate Bank in February; all Great Western branches now operate under the First Interstate Bank name.