Learning that pays off: How certification fuels career growth in credit

Ongoing education plays a critical role in driving both personal and professional growth. As industries evolve and new challenges emerge, staying informed and upskilled helps professionals make smarter decisions, improve performance and unlock new opportunities. NACM and FCIB’s six-level Professional Certification Program has helped numerous credit professionals hone their skills and gain essential knowledge to enhance their prospects in the world of credit management.  

For credit professionals, earning a certification not only enhances their knowledge, but adds value to their role within their company. “Earning my Credit Business Associate (CBA) designation has helped me understand more of the processes I perform in my role, and I am able to make more confident credit decisions now based on what I learned,” said Dena Harrison, CBA, office manager at Metal Specialties, Inc. (Odessa, TX). “Being certified makes it easier to perform your duties as you now understand why you do some of the things you do.” 

Harrison was inspired to pursue her CBA after having witnessed her colleague pursue the Certified Credit Executive (CCE) designation, NACM’s highest designation that endorses its achievers as capable of managing the credit function at an executive level. After attending several credit group meetings, Harrison learned more about the program and its short and long-term benefits. 

“This program is an opportunity that I am very thankful for and one that my employer fully supports,” Harrison said. “It is hard work but, in the end, you will be very proud of yourself for what you have accomplished and learned along the way.” 

Professional certifications are not just status symbols; they are a testament to a credit professionals’ commitment to their profession. “I’m not going to lie, it was a challenging period for me,” Harrison said. “I had to adjust to an in-person class environment while working full time and juggling responsibilities as a mother and grandmother. So, I had to study every chance I could. Looking back, I’ve applied so much of what I learned at work, and I learned that I am resilient and can still accomplish great things even at an older age.” 

For Harrison, her education doesn’t stop there. Currently, she’s taking courses towards the Credit Business Fellow (CBF) designation—the next step before obtaining her CCE designation. 

📚Study tip: Create a study group to drive discussion and increase focus. “I could not have made it through each course without the help of an amazing group of ladies,” Harrison said. “Not only will a study group be an asset to you, but you will make lifelong connections in your work and personal life.”