The Certified Lease & Finance Professional (CLFP) Foundation welcomed its newest class of CLFPs: 16 industry professionals who have demonstrated mastery of the equipment finance body of knowledge by passing the rigorous CLFP Exam. They are:
- Ryan Barten, CLFP – Senior Systems Analyst, Oakmont Capital
- Brandon Bliziotis, CLFP – Senior Financial Analyst, Oakmont Capital
- Austin Borgerding, CLFP – Credit Analyst, Oakmont Capital
- Helen Giotopoulos, CLFP – Business Development Manager, Finance Specialist, Group Financial Services
- Samantha Hagen, CLFP Associate – Marketing Specialist, AP Equipment Financing
- Eric Henry, CLFP – Sr. Manager, Capital Markets & Syndications, Altec Capital Services
- Adelyn Hildebrandt, CLFP Associate – Marketing Event Specialist, AP Equipment Financing
- Kelsey Johnson, CLFP – Legal Specialist, Transport Enterprise Leasing
- Juliana Lowe, CLFP – Regional Manager – Legal, CoreTech
- Susan Perry, CLFP – Treasury Analyst, Transport Enterprise Leasing
- Joseph Smith, CLFP – IT Security Analyst, Oakmont Capital
- Kayla Thielen, CLFP – Account Manager, Oakmont Capital
- Jessica Thompson, CLFP Associate – Funding Coordinator, Oakmont Capital
- Nicholas Trapani, CLFP Associate – Staff Accountant, Oakmont Capital
- Katelyn Walls, CLFP – Business Development Officer, Oakmont Capital
- Ashley Watson, CLFP – Quality Control Analyst, First Citizens Bank Equipment Finance
“I pursued the CLFP designation because I sought to develop a complete understanding of the equipment leasing and finance industry,” Watson said. “I am in my fourth year in this industry and wanted to learn every aspect of the leasing process. I also wanted to understand how applications are received through direct origination, vendor relationships and third-party brokers, and how each source progresses through underwriting, documentation, funding, servicing and portfolio management. Understanding the entire life cycle has given me greater appreciation for how every department contributes to a successful transaction and an exceptional customer experience.”
Watson added, “In my current role, this knowledge has been invaluable. My CLFP journey has equipped me with a broader perspective that allows me to identify potential concerns, support sound business practices and help ensure every transaction meets the highest standards. Earning the CLFP designation has strengthened my industry knowledge, expanded my perspective and reinforced my commitment to continuous learning. I believe that the more we understand the entire leasing process, the better we can serve our customers, support our teams and protect the integrity of our organization.”
