The well-known phrase, ‘everyone starts somewhere’ rings true to this day. You can’t expect perfection at first, but with discipline and determination, you can improve and grow. Whether you’re learning a new skill or changing careers, you have to find a safe place to start.  

After 15 years of working in the credit industry, Tami Vitales, CBA, credit analyst at the Imagine Group (Shakopee, MN), decided to pursue her Credit Business Associate (CBA) designation. Vitales story exemplifies how continued education through NACM and FCIB’s six Professional Certification Programs is an invaluable resource to credit professionals, regardless of how long they’ve worked in credit.   “I wanted to grow my knowledge and pursue additional education opportunities,” Vitales said. “Even though I’ve worked in credit for years, I was able to learn a lot more about the speci…

Remember the joy of building something amazing out of simple blocks as a child—the way each piece clicked into place, bringing your vision to life? Just like a child uses building blocks to turn imagination into towering creations, professional certifications are the foundational pieces adults use to build strong, successful careers. 

One of the hallmarks of a strong credit manager is a commitment to keep learning and improving themselves professionally. Earning a designation through one of NACM and FCIB’s six Professional Certification Programs is one way credit managers can advance in their careers.   Brittany Wojack, CBA, credit manager at Southern Pipe and Supply (Tuscaloosa, AL), saw earning her Credit Business Associate (CBA) designation as an opportunity to strengthen her foundation in credit to help her best serve her company.   “Having worked in credit for many years, I saw this as an opportunity to f…

Credit management is a fast-paced career where decisions often need to be made quickly, sometimes in real time, to manage risk, cash flow and customer relationships. But, the trust, knowledge and judgment that drive those decisions are built slowly, over time. Credit professionals hoping to develop those traits and gain instrumental knowledge seek out education through NACM and FCIB’s six-level Professional Certification Program. By doing so, certification holders bring forth an enriched expertise and skill set that helps them stand out in the crowd.  

There are many benefits to pursuing a designation through each one of NACM and FCIB’s six Professional Certification Programs. For Jen Turchin, CBA, AR/AP specialist for Northern Pipe Products (Fargo, ND), earning her Credit Business Associate (CBA) designation brought a newfound confidence and a higher level of expertise in the business credit field. 

Business-to-business (B2B) credit management is constantly evolving, shaped by technological advancements, shifting industry trends and a fluctuating economy. To remain at the forefront, credit professionals must be able to adapt quickly and confidently. By receiving a designation through NACM and FCIB’s Professional Certification Program, credit professionals have access to the essential knowledge, tools and network of credit professionals to help navigate shifting times.   

In the ever-evolving world of finance, it’s essential for credit professionals to continue their education to stay current, enhance their skills and advance their careers. The more knowledge professionals gain, the more value they bring to their organizations and the industry at large.