by Heather Hansen – Intermountain Farmers Association
NACM Board of Directors
I find that as Spring is blossoming, I use it as a time of reflection. I have been involved in Credit and Collections well over 30 years. When I was only 19 years old, I began as a rental agent working for a large apartment community. I was extremely fortunate to have a mentor as a boss that instilled a solution driven philosophy in my abilities. As a gift she gave me a rock that was engraved with an excellent quote by Ted Key, “Every job is a self portrait of the person who did it. Autograph your work with excellence.” Today you will still find that aged rock sitting on my desk. I was fortunate enough to take classes and become certified in Property Management on a National level. Working with thousands of renters was the beginning of my understanding that finding solutions remained a solid foundation to all our success.
I moved to Utah in 2006 and, as I was settling in with my family, I had the pleasure of meeting my next mentor, April Tanner. She recommended that I go on an interview which pleasantly I was hired for collections. We all know if you do it for many years you have found your passion. Shortly after, I became a part of NACM. It was slightly intimidating immersing yourself in to such an energy of the most highly intelligent, experienced, and knowledgeable group of individuals. I may have slightly had an imposter syndrome at the beginning. I felt as wide-eyed as a toddler getting to see the circus for the first time. Managing rental properties seemed minimal in comparison.
My reflection leads me to all the NACM members I have had the opportunity to learn from and the massive acceleration of knowledge I received from each of the mentors within this group. Every single member is a mentor. NACM embodies that solution driven foundation that I admire. They strive to provide the best educational foundation that allows us to succeed. I feel so fortunate to attend so may classes, network with “The Greats”, even sitting in on round table discussions that are thought provoking ideas to better yourself and your abilities.
Recently at dinner with my son I was introduced to his girlfriend. I found in her mid-twenties she has found her passion for what we do. We began discussing freight laws, bankruptcy proceedings, security interests, and negotiating loan notes. I saw that same wide-eyed look on her face and realized I was now able to share what I have learned from my mentors.
As the 2025 Credit Congress approached, I reflected on my success as a person and a Credit professional. My ability to assess risk, negotiate a successful contract, perpetuate the expectation to be paid, all while building and maintaining relationships with customers and the sales teams. I have an excitement to see what I will learn this year. If we maintain our eagerness to learn, NACM always provides the tools and guidance we search for. I reflect on my gratitude for being part of such an amazing group of individuals that are equally driven to become better in our field.