Something to look forward to.(commentary)

Can you remember your first day of school? I'm sorry to admit that I can't remember my very first day. My daughter's--yes; my grandchildren's--most definitely. But mine? No. I can recall anxiously anticipating the start of the new school year, though. It was a balanced mix of looking forward to renewing friendships after summer vacation and the challenge of new classes and learning new things. I consider myself fortunate in that each fail I would again find myself anxiously anticipating the adventure of a new school year.

Education has always been part of my life, starting with grade school through college, and finally, adult continuing education. My first "rear" job was working part-time after school at the local market. The last 30 years have been in the credit arena. I learned early-on that education was key to my professional growth and advancement. Once I landed in credit and knew I would stay, I turned to "the expert"--The National Association of Credit Management. I attended my first Credit Congress 20 years ago in Detroit, and have not missed one since! It was everything I had hoped for, and more. And now, each year I anxiously wait for Credit Congress so I can renew friendships and look to the challenge of learning new credit management techniques and processes.

Each year the NACM National staff provides a wide range of programs to enable each attendee to develop their own class schedule based on their personal skill level and need. This year, the 109th NACM Credit Congress offers many sessions in Financial Analysis, Credit & Technology, Credit Management, International Credit, Business Skills, the Legal Environment of Credit, Industry Specific Programs and much more.

NACM strives to bring the conference attendee the most topical and relevant educational offerings possible. Just found out that you will now handle your company's international credit department? Attend "introduction to International Credit": learn the basic tools and concepts needed to succeed in an international credit environment. Also plan to attend "What you Don't Know CAN Hurt You--U.S. Regulatory Compliance for Domestic and International Trade. The credit department is key in managing compliance to the various U.S. government regulations, such as OFAC, the Patriot Act, customs regulations and more. Perhaps your company's first international venture will be in Mexico. Don't miss "Doing Business in Mexico", presented by Ignacio Gonzalez, attorney and President of NACM-Mexico.

Looking for ways to strengthen your position within your company? Attend one of the certificate sessions: Business Credit Principles or Financial Statements: Interpretation and Credit Risk Assessment; or take the Certified Expert Witness Program. Are you ...