FWI has something for all stages of career

After attending an FWI event as a guest in 1997, Tammy Wolff was intrigued enough to join the Buffalo, NY chapter, and has been actively involved since. At the time, she was working at a bank and attending college, and says FWI benefited both her school and work.

Today, she is a Vice President/Branch Manager at M&T Commercial bank in Cheektowaga, NY. After 20 years in banking, she is still learning and growing in her career, thanks to FWI.

“Being involved in FWI helps me practice my skills in a safe environment among friends, and apply what I learn in the workplace,” she says. “The bank where I work has noticed and that’s why they continue to support me and the [FWI] group. FWI has offered something throughout all stages of my career.”

Almost 10 years after joining FWI, Wolff says the organization has helped her greatly enhance her communication skills, presentation skills and leadership skills, something she might not have had the opportunity to do otherwise. She has also been pleased with the opportunity to continue her education through the FWI credited programs.

“When I started with FWI, the Management Certificate Program provided a milestone where you could have a goal to work toward and achieve recognition. It encouraged you to continue to participate in the Foundation program and educational books because you would get credit for it.  I have been involved in revamping that program over the last few years,” she says.

While in college, Wolff took on many roles in education and training, using FWI’s Foundation programs and books. “I would read the book, prepare a PowerPoint presentation, and present it to the (FWI) group. By working on programs for our chapter, I was able to apply it to my position at the bank as well as my papers that were due for school.” 

Wolff has noticed that FWI has been reaching out to members more and getting them involved. The teleforums have been a boon toward that effort. In the last three years, she herself, has participated in the Annual International Conference and helped organize speakers and a venue for one of the conferences as a chapter co-host.

 “Taking advantage of all that FWI offers is the biggest opportunity for members, existing and new. The best advice I have is to be involved, step out of your comfort zone and take every opportunity you can with FWI.”