The Certified Lease & Finance Professional (CLFP) Foundation is pleased to welcome 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. Representing diverse companies and roles across the industry, these individuals have joined an elite community united by a commitment to professional excellence and ethical practice. They are:
- Ryan Barten, CLFP – Senior Systems Analyst, Oakmont Capital Holdings, LLC
- Brandon Bliziotis, CLFP – Senior Financial Analyst, Oakmont Capital Holdings, LLC
- Austin Borgerding, CLFP – Credit Analyst, Oakmont Capital Holdings, LLC
- 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, LLC
- Adelyn Hildebrandt, CLFP Associate – Marketing Event Specialist, AP Equipment Financing
- Kelsey Johnson, CLFP – Legal Specialist, Transport Enterprise Leasing LLC
- Juliana Lowe, CLFP – Regional Manager – Legal, CoreTech
- Susan Perry, CLFP – Treasury Analyst, Transport Enterprise Leasing LLC
- Joseph Smith, CLFP – IT Security Analyst, Oakmont Capital Holdings, LLC
- Kayla Thielen, CLFP – Account Manager, Oakmont Capital Holdings, LLC
- Jessica Thompson, CLFP Associate – Funding Coordinator, Oakmont Capital Holdings, LLC
- Nicholas Trapani, CLFP Associate – Staff Accountant, Oakmont Capital Holdings, LLC
- Katelyn Walls, CLFP – Business Development Officer, Oakmont Capital Holdings, LLC
- 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,” shares Ashley Watson of First Citizens Bank Equipment Finance. “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.”
“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.”
Earning the CLFP designation signals more than technical expertise. It reflects a commitment to elevating the equipment finance industry through continuous learning, ethical leadership, and shared professional standards. CLFPs and Associates are now found across the United States (including Puerto Rico), Canada, India, Pakistan, Africa, New Zealand, and Australia. To learn more or begin your own path to certification, visit www.CLFPFoundation.org.