The Northern Colorado Financial Sector Partnership (FSP) gathered for its All-Partner Meeting on Thursday, September 4, 2025, hosted at High Country Beverage. The event drew 53 attendees, with 39 industry partners representing the region’s financial sector.
The meeting highlighted the importance of collaboration between education and industry to ensure Northern Colorado continues to grow a strong, skilled workforce in finance.
Spotlight on Partnerships
This month’s featured nonprofit partner was Project Self-Sufficiency, which empowers single parents to achieve economic independence through education and career development.
The meeting was proudly sponsored by Nyle Kenning with Points West Community Bank (PWCB). Nyle shared how PWCB prioritizes community connection, supporting local businesses and individuals through financial services and outreach.
Panel Discussion: Preparing Students for Careers in Finance
The centerpiece of the meeting was a dynamic panel, “From Classroom to Career: Strengthening the Talent Pipeline in Finance.” Facilitated by Kristi Benningsdorf and Katie Shilts, the conversation focused on aligning education with workforce needs.
Panelists
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Erin Fink Smith – Aims Community College
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Kim Dale – Front Range Community College
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Shawn Utecht – Colorado State University
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Becky Ezzell – Keep Smart Books Academy
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Tommy Roth – Student, University of Northern Colorado
Key Takeaways
1. The Role of Technology
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Kim Dale emphasized the rising importance of AI and data literacy, with faculty teaching students to critically evaluate information, not just use it.
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Erin Smith highlighted the need to decide which tools—like cybersecurity certifications or AI modules—belong in curricula.
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Tommy Roth noted that students are learning to view AI as a productive tool rather than a crutch.
2. Institutional Strengths
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Tommy Roth shared his experience in UNC’s Student and Foundation Fund, where students manage a real portfolio, gaining hands-on investment experience.
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Shawn Utecht described CSU’s “secret sauce”: faculty passion that drives student success and program growth.
3. Supporting the Classroom-to-Career Transition
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Becky Ezzell stressed the urgent demand for accounting staff, noting that Keep Smart Books Academy cannot keep up with requests for trained professionals. The partnership can help by spreading awareness of training programs.
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Kim Dale reminded attendees that students come from diverse backgrounds, including adult learners seeking to upskill, and open dialogue between industry and education is key.
4. Building Ideal Partnerships
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Erin Smith urged industry partners to clearly communicate the skills and competencies they need.
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Shawn Utecht encouraged professionals to share their success stories to inspire students and counter negative narratives about the finance industry.
5. Insights from the Student Perspective
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Tommy Roth emphasized the power of internships in building skills and networks, and suggested platforms like Handshake and LinkedIn could better serve students.
6. Credentials and Career Growth
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Kim Dale noted that credentials reduce fear for students and open clear pathways to career progression, particularly through stackable certificates.
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Erin Smith shared the growing value of digital badging and competency-based learning models, which allow customizable education pathways.
The NoCo FSP continues to build momentum around workforce development and collaboration. Mark your calendars for upcoming meetings:
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FSP Workforce Sub-Committee Meeting: Thursday, September 18, 2025 | 4:00–5:30 PM | Location TBD
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FSP Workforce Sub-Committee Meeting: Thursday, November 6, 2025 | 4:00–5:30 PM | Location TBD
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NoCo FSP All-Partner Meeting: Thursday, December 4, 2025 | 4:00–5:30 PM | High Country Beverage
