Delving deeper into credit with professional certification programs 

Credit professionals may begin their professional certification journey at any point in their career. Whether they are brand new to the industry or have worked in the field for a decade, earning a designation through one of NACM and FCIB’s six Professional Certification Programs reflects a desire to deepen their knowledge and understanding of the dynamic business credit field. 

Having been a member of NACM since 2007, Nikki Wilkins, CBA, credit manager at Lodge Lumber (Houston, TX), has taken the first step in her professional certification journey by earning her Credit Business Associate (CBA) designation.  

“When I finally got the opportunity to do the classes, I found the structure of condensed, week-long classes worked for me,” Wilkins said. “It was a challenge because it is so much material in such a little time period, but I do well with that format because I can get through it quickly and can move on, it was a great refresher.” 

Taking a class focused on business credit is an opportunity to delve deeper into the subject matter, helping even seasoned credit managers better understand the ‘why’ behind credit processes.  

“I learned about the different laws, regulations and acts that were not covered in detail in my college classes; it was very cool to finally dig into those,” Wilkins said. “I feel a great sense of accomplishment and now I understand what others that earned this before me have gone through. I have a better appreciation for the program and look forward to continued participation.” 

Professional certification courses are an opportunity to forge deeper bonds within the credit community. “My favorite part of the course was the comradery of getting to do small group exercises in the classes and making those network connections with my classmates,” Wilkins said.  

📝Study tip: Learn what study habits work best for you. “Everyone learns differently,” Wilkins said. “For me, repetition is key. Practice makes perfect. If I get overwhelmed, I just take a break and then come back to it.”