Trailblazer Executive Readiness Applications Closing Friday; 2022 Participants Highlighted

Advance your credit union career with Trailblazers Executive Readiness Training. This 12-month program is designed to accelerate executive level leadership skills and build credit union specific knowledge needed to succeed in our industry.

​Having high-potential leaders in the pipeline is critical for credit unions and the industry. Designed by Minnesota credit union professionals – the program is intended to prepare emerging leaders for executive level positions. Topics include Leadership Skills, Credit Union Financials, Credit Union Operations, and Strategic Planning & Growth. Courses will be facilitated by both experts in the field and current credit union leaders. Upon completion participants will receive a Minnesota Credit Union Executive Leadership Certification.

The deadline to apply is this Friday, July 29. With questions, contact Mara Humphrey , Andrea Molnau or Ben Hering.

APPLY NOW

​2021-2022 Trailblazers
​Ahead of the graduation of the first cohort of MnCUN’s Trailblazers Executive Readiness Training program in September, we will be highlighting the credit union professionals participating in the inaugural year of the program. 

Bailey Germain, VP Marketing, City & County Credit Union
Why have you chosen a career in credit unions? 
When I first started in the credit union industry, I didn't know I was starting a job that would quickly become a passion. Each and every day I'm able to make an impact - whether it's helping a first time home buyer find their way home or volunteering at a local food pantry to feed our neighbors. It has been my personal mission to advocate for the credit union movement modernize the way we communicate to the community to ensure everyone has access to affordable financial solutions.

​​How do you think the Trailblazer program will impact your career?
The Trailblazer Program has been an incredible stepping stone in my career. During my time in the program I was promoted to Vice President of Marketing with the hiring team knowing I was gaining well rounded training in all areas of CU leadership. Each session has provided insight into my career - including ways that I can continue to grow & explore opportunities.
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What have you enjoyed most about the program?
As cliché as this may sound, networking. When you are in a program like Trailblazers you quickly become a mini family. Each time we chat or get together, we are able to pick up right where we left off. Plus - the amount of times I've been able to reach out to a contact with a CU question has been tremendous!
 
Stacey Hinrichs, Chief Financial Officer, Red Wing Credit Union
Why have you chosen a career in credit unions? 
I chose to work at Red Wing Credit Union for the variety of work and to be part of the community. 

​​How do you think the Trailblazer program will impact your career?
The Trailblazer program has opened doors to more purposeful networking with others in the credit union industry.  I have met many people whom I now consider my friends. 
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What have you enjoyed most about the program?
I have enjoyed the educational content that is presented as part of the Trailblazer program.  It has been beneficial to learn how different areas of the credit union functions while learning how my peers operate their credit unions. 

Justin Houle, Director of Finance, Catholic United Credit Union
Why have you chosen a career in credit unions? 
I've found that I want to work somewhere that has a purpose and isn't driven mainly by profit. Credit Unions have a history of giving back to members and treating their employees great. All of the networking and resources that are available have been great in helping me love credit unions even more!
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​​How do you think the Trailblazer program will impact your career?
One of the biggest things the Trailblazer program has given me is a network of people I can reach out to with questions. The program has also given me a chance to see how other departments in credit unions function. I've only been in accounting, so being able to see how other departments can help each other will bring a different perspective to my career path.
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What have you enjoyed most about the program?
Networking opportunities have been one of the biggest things I have enjoyed about the program. The speakers that are brought in also have been great, they are able to explain things in a clear way and give insight on how a credit union should be run.

Scott Iblings, Vice President - Finance, South Metro Federal Credit Union
Why have you chosen a career in credit unions? 
Ability to help members in many different ways.
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​How do you think the Trailblazer program will impact your career?
Better understanding how other credit unions operate. 
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What have you enjoyed most about the program?
Getting to know other Trailblazers from various credit union and various roles.

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