Board Spotlight: Brea Hatch, Bangor Savings

Boards Spotlight – Empowered by Education: My Path with CFTEA by Brea Hatch, Bangor Savings Bank

“A Story of Growth, Mentorship, and Achievement”

In 2008, as a new manager at a small community bank, I found myself at a crossroads. I knew I needed to deepen my understanding of the banking industry, but I wasn’t sure where to start. That’s when I discovered the Center for Financial Training and Education Alliance (CFTEA). Little did I know, this decision would set me on a transformative journey of continuous learning and professional growth.

My first course, “Principles of Banking,” was taught by the inspiring former CFTEA president Marcia Benner. Not having any prior experience in banking, this course was instrumental in building my foundational knowledge. Marcia’s passion for the organization ignited a spark in me, and I quickly realized that CFTEA was more than just an educational institution, it was a community dedicated to empowering individuals to reach their full potential.

Over the years, I immersed myself in various CFTEA classes, earning certifications such as the Supervisor Certificate, Advanced Supervisor Certificate, and Business Development Certificate. The different formats, online, in-person, and self-paced, provided the flexibility I needed to juggle my responsibilities as a branch manager, student, mother, and wife. Although balancing these roles was challenging, the unwavering support from my mentors and the CFTEA community kept me motivated. These classes not only sharpened my managerial skills but also enhanced my ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and enriched my social interactions, making me a more well-rounded individual.

Along my journey, I also enrolled in Southern Maine Community College and completed my associate’s degree in business administration. CFTEA made me want to continue my education and gave me the drive to want more for myself. This academic achievement further fueled my professional growth and opened new doors for career advancement. Currently, I am set to graduate from Husson University in Spring 2025 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Professional Studies.

My dedication and achievements did not go unnoticed. Former CFTEA president Margaret Collamorecampbell recognized my potential and offered me the exciting opportunity to teach for CFTEA. Embracing this new role, I taught various classes, including Verbal Communication, Fraud, Cons and Scams, and many other career development courses. One of my most memorable teaching experiences was when a student shared how the “Fraud, Cons and Scams” class helped them prevent a major financial loss in their personal life. Teaching for CFTEA has been incredibly rewarding, allowing me to share my knowledge and experiences with others and help them grow in their careers just as I did. One of my proudest moments was when a former student, now a successful manager, thanked me for the guidance and support they received during my classes.

In 2021, I was encouraged to apply to be a board member of CFTEA. Seeing this as a great next step, I completed the application and was nominated as a board member and a member of the nominating committee. I remember feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness during the application process, but the support from my mentors and colleagues was invaluable. In 2024, I took on the role of Vice President of Finance, further contributing to the organization’s mission. Serving on the board has given me a deeper understanding of CFTEA’s impact and the importance of financial education in our community. My unwavering dedication to CFTEA has empowered me to recruit council members from diverse fields, each bringing their unique expertise to our team. This has not only broadened our network but also amplified our influence, allowing us to make a greater impact together.

Throughout my journey, I have been fortunate to meet many mentors at CFTEA who have provided invaluable guidance and support. Their wisdom and encouragement have played a crucial role in my development. I am deeply committed to CFTEA’s purpose, values, culture, and mission, and I am dedicated to contributing to its ongoing success.

Looking ahead, I am excited about the future and my continued involvement with CFTEA. I hope to inspire more professionals to pursue their educational goals and contribute to the growth of our industry. My journey with CFTEA has come full circle, from being a student to becoming an educator and now a board member, and I am grateful for the opportunities and growth it has provided me. CFTEA taught me to reach for more and never stop learning, and for that, I am forever thankful.

As I prepare to graduate from Husson University in Spring 2025, I reflect on how CFTEA has been a cornerstone of my success. The organization’s commitment to education and professional development has not only shaped my career but also instilled in me a lifelong passion for learning and growth. I am proud to be part of an organization that empowers individuals to achieve their full potential and look forward to continuing this journey of growth and contribution.