From setback to strength: Heather Hansen’s journey to certification

Time after time, NACM and FCIB’s six-level Professional Certification Program has proven to be a catalyst for professional growth for credit professionals. Each certification provides a strong foundation of core principles and best practices relevant to multiple areas within credit management. More than just a learning experience, the program transforms participants, equipping them with the confidence and knowledge to make greater contributions to the credit profession. 

“Earning my Credit Business Associate (CBA) designation, in a way, reinvigorated my creativity,” said Heather Hansen, CBA, credit and AR manager at Intermountain Farmers Association (Salt Lake City, UT). “I started to approach my credit role differently than I had before, and I also learned more about business credit law—like how to navigate legal proceedings.” 

Hansen first learned of the program during a trade group meeting hosted by her local affiliate, NACM Business Credit Services Intermountain. “I had known about the program for years through my involvement with our local chapter,” Hansen said. “Initially, I wanted to pursue my Certified Credit Executive (CCE) but after learning more about the program’s requirements, I thought it best to pursue a college degree and focus on earning my CBA.” 

While Hansen successfully completed her associate degree, moving on to a bachelor’s proved more challenging as she balanced motherhood, work and life. “Navigating life as a single mother was difficult,” Hansen said. “Although there were scholarships available, I had to prioritize my high-school-aged children. At the time, I was traveling frequently and had changed companies, which left little time to study.” 

However, everything changed in January 2024, when Hansen got diagnosed with breast cancer. “This pushed me to sign up and take classes as it felt like it was the one thing I could control,” said Hansen. “I’ll admit, I did experience imposter syndrome, feeling like I was not smart enough.” Despite the challenges, Hansen emerged stronger—both personally and professionally. She not only completed her studies but also beat cancer. 

Hansen credits her success not just to determination, but to the unwavering support of those around her. “The support I received from my company president was instrumental,” Hansen said. “He and other senior team members are proud of what I’ve accomplished and recognize that I’m better at my job because of it. I’d also like to thank my local affiliate and my mentor of 17 years who introduced me to NACM, whom without, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”