MADISON, Wis.– Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 CUES Emerge leadership development program. Offered in partnership with Currency Marketing, CUES Emerge was designed to equip rising credit union professionals with the “skills, confidence, and visibility to accelerate their careers,” the organizations said.
There is no cost to participate.
“What makes CUES Emerge so special is that it doesn’t just teach leaders new skills; it helps them recognize the power they already have to influence, inspire, and drive meaningful change,” CUES CEO Heather McKissick said in a statement. “Every year, we watch participants step forward with more clarity, confidence, and conviction in their leadership. That momentum goes beyond career growth, strengthening the entire credit union system.”
Combination of Offerings
According to CUES, the program combines expert-led CUES Virtual Classroom sessions with peer-driven Mastermind discussions, providing both structured learning and collaborative support.
“Participants apply what they learn by developing a comprehensive business case tailored to a real opportunity or challenge within their organization,” CUES said. “Those who successfully complete all program requirements earn the respected Certified Credit Union Manager (CCM) designation, signaling readiness for expanded leadership responsibility.”
Additional Option
CUES added that participants may also opt into the program’s competition phase, where select finalists are invited to present their business cases during a live online pitch event. One participant will be named CUES Emerging Leader, with two additional runners-up. All three will receive a tiered package that includes advanced education opportunities, leadership assessments, and professional coaching.
“Many CUES Emerge alumni leave the program with initiatives that have a measurable impact at their credit unions,” CUES said. “In many cases, these efforts create opportunities for new leadership roles and expand participants’ influence within their organizations.”
CUES Emerge is open to non-executive credit union professionals who are ready to invest in their leadership growth and contribute meaningfully to the future of the credit union movement.
For info: CUESEmerge.com. Applications will be accepted through Feb. 9.
