Professional certification supports early-career credit professionals 

Completing one of NACM’s professional certification programs can hold different meanings for working credit professionals. Whether your new designation represents your fresh start at a new job or in a new industry, the confidence and skills that come with continued education ensure that you will hit the ground running no matter what. 

For Samantha Stevens, CBA, credit analyst at Water Pik, Inc. (Fort Collins, CO), earning the Credit Business Associate (CBA) designation helped her understand the world of business credit while expanding on her skillset and helping her establish herself in her new position.  

“After taking these courses, the dots finally started connecting in my everyday work,” Stevens said. “As far as myself, I was always intimidated by continuing my education, studies and exams. Finishing this part of the journey, and obtaining the CBA certificate, proved to me that I can further my education if I put in the work.”  

Outside of refining the skills you use day-to-day in your work in credit, a designation also grants you a newfound confidence, allowing you to approach even the most complicated credit dilemmas with ease and determination. “It feels very rewarding!” Stevens said. “I have more confidence in my position.  All the hours studying and note taking were well worth it.” 

📝Study Tip: “NACM is great at providing a timeline for studies. I would stick to that as much as possible,” Stevens said. “If you’re taking self-study courses, listening to the lectures daily really helped me. Take notes, lots and lots of notes.”