“Steps to Success” career preparation program gains attention from Vermont State Treasurer

Vermont State Treasurer Mike Pieciak has accepted an invitation to be a guest at the 2024 Steps to Success graduation on July 30th. The program, held at NorthCountry’s headquarters in South Burlington, has been offered to students from Winooski High School every summer since 2020.

Jeff Smith, NorthCountry’s SVP Lending, partnered with Winooski High School teacher Courtney Poquette to create “Steps to Success” along with instructor Antoinette Bennett-Jones. The program intends to build upon Winooski High School’s Financial Literacy curriculum and work with students to prepare them for their work and financial future. Attention from the Vermont State Treasurer’s office is a milestone for the program and honor for this year’s graduates.

"It's critical to prepare young Vermonters to successfully navigate adulthood, and NorthCountry's 'Steps to Success' program does just that,” states Vermont State Treasurer Mike Pieciak. “By learning about financial concepts like budgeting, saving, managing credit, and more, the program helps participants build confidence to take charge of their finances and make informed decisions about their futures. I want to thank NorthCountry for providing this life-changing, low-barrier opportunity for professional development to Vermont students. I also want to congratulate the program's graduates and wish them well as they prepare for the next stages of their lives."

The Treasurer’s commitment to financial empowerment for all aligns well with NorthCountry’s efforts. Along with their work towards diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging, NorthCountry frequently seeks ways to support and promote financial stability. They are pleased to share this program, which is just one of their current initiatives.

The free multi-week program provides hands-on focus on good budgeting habits, responsible usage of credit, resume writing, interviewing, and workplace etiquette. Community leaders meet with students to provide tangible tips for a successful future. Transportation and lunch are provided, and participants receive a stipend upon successful completion of the program.

Not only do participants gain useful skills they can carry with them as they enter the workforce, but each year one or more graduates of Steps to Success has been hired by the credit union. “It is the creation and execution of programs like Steps to Success that help us deepen our relationship with the communities we serve,” says Morgan Salter, Community Relations Manager at NorthCountry Federal Credit Union. “It’s a valuable opportunity to help prepare the next generation of leaders for life after graduation. We are proud to have built this successful program and look forward to celebrating the graduation of another group.”