I was first introduced to CFTEA (Center for Financial Training and Education Alliance) in November of 2017 as a new banker. One of my mentors was eager to take some classes in person, but she didn’t want to take classes alone. I had never been one that enjoyed school. I was a very shy, self-conscious student. It took her some time, but my mentor’s eagerness and persistence lead me to taking my first CFTEA course, which lead to another, and
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Let’s face it—people’s fuses are shorter than ever these days. One wrong word and suddenly you’re face-to-face with a customer who sounds like they’ve been rehearsing for a reality TV meltdown. That’s where Jessica’s Calming Upset Customers course comes in. No gimmicks. No fluff. Just practical tools to turn tension into trust and “I want to speak to your manager” into “thank you for helping me.” ✨ Here’s the deal: Dates: September 10 or October 7 (6–8 PM ET, live
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You asked, we listened. Live options are here! CFTEA’s Virtual Classrooms are filling up fast and when you enroll, you help ensure these sessions run with our dedicated, talented instructors leading the way. Coming soon: • September: Calming Upset Customers (at a big discount!) • October: Principles of Banking and Written Communication with AI Live. Relevant. Interactive. The training you wanted—delivered. Why it matters: Because while AI can write a passable haiku about customer service, it’s not going to de-escalate
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Most training companies: “Here’s your course. Good luck!” CFTEA: “Uh oh, hit a snag? Don’t worry—we got you!” Textbook shipped to the wrong location? Tammy’s already tracking it down. ️ Signed up for a course that disappeared? We’ll get you into the right one. Locked out with a password issue? A real person is just a call or email away. That’s the CFTEA difference. Behind every course is a team (hi Tammy ) that actually cares if you succeed. We
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For years, CFTEA made its home at Auburn Hall on the Pineland Campus. The conference center there was a hub of activity—students gathered for live classes, community banks sent employees for professional development, and the energy of in-person learning filled every corner. Tammy and Andrew worked out of Auburn Hall right up until just before the pandemic. When COVID hit, it shifted everything—not just for them, but for financial institutions everywhere. Professional development went virtual, and CFTEA was already ahead
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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
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Still soaking up the last days of summer? We are too. Whether you’re catching sunsets, spending time with family, or squeezing in one more weekend getaway—we get it. But here’s a gentle nudge What are you doing for YOU this fall? Whether you’re ready to: • Take one course • Enroll in a cost-saving bundle • Or finally work toward that certificate, diploma, or certification… CFTEA has your back. ✅ Affordable ✅ Flexible ✅ Easy to sign up ✅ Built
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Here’s a smarter way to make it happen. Through CFTEA’s partnership with Saint Joseph’s College of Maine, you can apply up to 90 out of 120 credits from CFTEA courses toward any degree or your Bachelor of Science in Business Administration—with a Banking Major. That means… Fewer college courses. A fraction of the cost. A faster path to your degree. CFTEA courses are not only flexible and career-focused—they’re recognized by Saint Joseph’s College for college credit. Whether you’re just starting
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Two ways to ride your career growth with CFTEA… which one are you? Tammy’s got her hands in the air—embracing every twist, turn, and leap forward that comes with building new skills. Andrew? Let’s just say he’s holding on for dear life… and maybe screaming a little. No matter your style—fearless and ready for anything or cautious but determined—CFTEA is right there with you on the ride. Every certificate, diploma, and course is another climb toward confidence and opportunity in
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It is with great sadness that CFTEA has prematurely lost a beautiful light in our community and the world. Mary Swift, a long-time student, tireless supporter, and cherished board member was more than a colleague. She was a constant source of kindness, energy, and purpose. Mary had a gift for helping others in every way imaginable. Whether it was sharing her deep knowledge, drawing from years of experience, or offering practical ways to weave professional development into daily work, she
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