First American Equipment Finance announced 106 of its colleagues have earned the Certified Lease and Finance Professional (CLFP) designation. More CLFPs work at First American than anywhere else in the world, the company said. There are 637 CLFPs in the world.

“The CLFP program provides the most comprehensive equipment leasing and finance foundation available,” said Alan Sikora, CEO of First American Equipment Finance. “The deep understanding that our CLFP-certified colleagues have helps us serve clients at a higher level.”

The CLFP exam is an objective, third party-vetted indication of a lease professional’s reputation, experience and knowledge, and is known as the standard for professionalism in the commercial equipment leasing industry. The body of knowledge required to earn the CLFP designation includes proficiency in credit and financial statement review, lease law and lease documentation, financial and tax accounting for leases, portfolio management and more.

CLFPs must demonstrate their competency through a proctored test, commit to continuing education as well as integrity in business practices, and be dedicated to the equipment finance industry.