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The Cooperative Trust Crasher Program: A Steppingstone Toward Your Career Goals

Six years ago, Ming Poon was working in the food-service industry and was facing a challenging financial situation, struggling to pay off his debt, purchase a reliable car, and raise his credit score. However, he refused to let his circumstances define his future and was determined to take control of his financial situation. To do so, Ming found resources that could help him achieve his financial goals.

After a few years, Ming landed a job as a financial service assistant for NorthCountry, leveraging his newfound knowledge and skills. Recognizing the importance of professional development, he embarked on a journey to expand his expertise and gain deeper insights into the credit union industry. However, he knew that he wanted to continue to grow as a young professional and learn more about the inner workings of credit unions.

Ming's determination led him to Filene's Cooperative Trust Crasher program, which he saw as the perfect opportunity to advance his skills and network with other young professionals. Ming went through the application process to “Crash the GAC” and was accepted into the program. Over the course of the program, he learned about Credit Union models, community development, leadership, diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, and much more. He walked out of the crasher program feeling confident and empowered and described it as a “phenomenal, informative, and very perspective broadening” experience. He emerged from the program with a fresh perspective and an eagerness to apply his new knowledge to identify gaps and areas for improvement at his credit union.

A stepping stone towards career goals

Following his experience as a Crasher, Ming is attending Filene's Spark event to further his learning and network with like-minded individuals. He is excited to gain insights and learn from the many professionals who would be attending and presenting at the event. Ming is confident that he would be able to apply what he learns at the event to his everyday life and at his work at the credit union.

Ming believes that Filene’s programs and events like Crash the GAC and Spark are essential to helping “credit unions stay competitive and innovative by introducing new ideas and perspectives to young professionals”. He encourages aspiring young professionals in the credit union industry to take advantage of opportunities like the Crasher program and Spark event to help them achieve their career goals.

Credit unions stay competitive and innovative by introducing new ideas and perspectives to young professionals.

Ming's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, education, and networking. By taking control of his financial situation, educating himself, taking advantage of his resources, and networking with like-minded professionals, Ming was able to transform his career and life. He particularly encourages aspiring young professionals in the credit union industry to get involved with The Cooperative Trust and take this opportunity as a steppingstone towards their career goals as well.

If this speaks to your desire to connect, belong, learn and grow – apply now to Crash Filene’s big.bright.minds 2023. APPLY HERE!