MADISON, Wis.–Applications are now open for the annual “Crash the GAC” at CUNA’s 2020 Governmental Affairs Conference hosted by Filene’s Cooperative Trust program.
That program seeks to prepare young professionals to step into leadership roles in the credit union industry.
“While networking has always been a standard business practice, the power of those connections to give people a voice and to make an impact on the world is often left unharnessed,” the Cooperative Trust said in a statement. “Mentorships and online networking will be a focus of the program in the year ahead.”
The Cooperative Trust noted it is the credit union community’s largest young professional community, and that the “Crash” program is designed to empower credit union young professionals through professional development and by finding and amplifying their voices to advocate for the role of young people in the industry.
The Goal
“The goal of the Cooperative Trust and the Crash program is to bring all voices to the table so credit unions can stay relevant into the future. We are a community of hard-working, savvy, future-thinking professionals with a passion for making the world a better place,” said Cortney Angeley, Filene’s director of community development and new leader of the Cooperative Trust community. “The power of this program comes through not only attending industry conferences, but also getting special content and access to the best of the best in the financial industry—opportunities that many others in this industry wouldn’t typically get. The other essential element is networks and tools to grow professionally through the mentorship program and the Cooperative Trust website where people can connect and learn from like-minded young professionals all over North America.”
Filene said that once again in 2020 it plans to bring its largest group of Crashers to attend CUNA’s GAC. “The program, throughout its 10-year tenure, has consistently created loyal credit union advocates from its ranks,” the organization said. “This network is not only advantageous for young professionals looking to grow and advance their careers, but also for leaders and CEOs looking to better serve, attract and retain young talent and members.”
How to Apply
The Cooperative Trust said credit union young professionals can apply to be a Crasher at all of Filene’s research events, Filene’s annual big.bright.minds, and many major industry conferences in the coming year.
“Crashers get professional development tools, meet with industry leaders, network with peers, and experience each event in a dynamic way,” Filene said.
For additional info, visit the Cooperative Trust website.