To ensure employees are growing and thriving, Michigan First Credit Union developed a “Leadership Academy,” explained CEO Michael Poulos. The program was designed to equip leaders with “skill sets and knowledge that enhance individual and team” performance.
The Leadership Academy consists of three core-learning components:
- The Leadership Track supports individuals in developing leadership skills and concludes with a “capstone experience” that includes a visit to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, to learn about leadership from a historical perspective on the battlefields,” noted Poulos.
- The “Tech Track,” he added, provides “in-depth training on commonly used Microsoft Office programs,” such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
- “The ‘Communication Track’ is completed through Toastmasters International membership, where team members learn about and practice public speaking to enhance communication skills with members and each other, while increasing confidence,” he said.
Michigan First was ranked No. 7 overall on the Best Credit Unions to Work For 2017 and No. 3 among
Acting as a good neighbor, Michigan First supports community members through a variety of initiatives. The Michigan First Foundation, for example, provides financial support to local community organizations, including Gleaners Community Food Bank, Detroit Public Schools and Access of West Michigan.
“Team members are encouraged to give back to the community and Michigan First partners with Southfield Goodfellows each year to provide holiday gifts for children,” said Poulos. “Team members are also allotted eight hours annually to volunteer at local nonprofits and can spend a workday donating their time and talents.”
Founded in 1926, Michigan First Credit Union supports 21 branches and more than 145,000 members.
