Overcoming adversity: A journey to certification and triumph 

NACM and FCIB’s six-level Professional Certification Program has proven to transform careers for credit professionals. Each designation unequivocally expands the knowledge base and skill set in various aspects of business credit. In addition to gaining credibility in their role, each designee walks away with valuable insights and experiences of personal growth. 

Erica Goines, CBA, credit coordinator at Ferguson Enterprises LLC (Newport News, VA), decided to pursue her Credit Business Associate (CBA) designation after hearing about a former supervisor’s experience. “When I joined the credit department five years ago, they spoke about the programs and how it helped others know more about credit,” she said. “At that time, I knew I wasn’t ready and needed more time in credit to learn what I can. When the time was right, I went for it.” 

Earning her certification proved challenging after the unexpected death of her mother, which led to the postponement of her final exam. With support from her employers and NACM, she remained positive and persevered. “Throughout the exam, I held a necklace with my mother’s ashes in it, and my supervisor gave me an ornament that said, ‘Keep Making Her Proud,’” Goines said. “That gave me the strength to keep going and to make her proud. It feels amazing to add this accomplishment to my name—it was a huge milestone. Every year during my review, this was my top goal, and I finally achieved it.” 

Earning your designation adds value to your role as a credit professional. “Earning my CBA has provided a deeper understanding of credit and boosted my confidence in making credit decisions,” Goines said. “If you’re looking to further your career in credit, this program is very useful, provides a lot of information and opens doors to career advancement opportunities.” 

✏️Study Tips: Study the materials that NACM provides to you and take the practice test. “The NACM website provides all the resources you need to pass the exam,” Goines said. “The information provided is very useful and you learn more about credit.” 

For more information about each designation within NACM’s and FCIB’s Professional Certification Programs, visit our website.