######## surrounding the article denotes it is a press release, it was not written by Leasing News nor has the information been verified, but from the source noted. When an article is signed by the writer, it is considered a byline. It reflects the opinion and research of the writer.


Was promoted Executive Director, JP Morgan Equipment Finance, New York, New York. He is located in Denver Metropolitan Area. Previously, he was Vice President, Equipment Sales (January, 2024 - June, 2026)' LinkedIn full Bio: Click Here
Was promoted to Vice President, Vendor Finance, First American Equipment Finance, Victor, New York. He is located in Fairport, New York. Previously he was Senior Vice President (April, 2015 - June, 2026); Vice President, Business Manager (July, 2014 - April, 2015). LinkedIn full Bio: Click Here


Was Hired as Hospitality - Vendor Relationship Manage, Fox Ridge Capital, Portsmith, New Hampshire. She is located in Dana Point California. Previously, She was at Ascentium Capital for 8 years, 4 months, last position, Vice President, Relationship Manager, Hospitality (April, 2024 -July, 2026) LinkedIn full Bio: Click Here

Dext Capital launched a redesigned website that better reflects the multiple industries the company serves and makes it easier for customers, partners and vendors to access financing information, manage their accounts and explore equipment financing solutions.
Kyin Lok, CEO of Dext Capital, said, “The markets we serve have evolved dramatically; technology, AI infrastructure, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, education — and our customers deserve a digital experience that matches that ambition,” . “The new Dext site does exactly that. Faster, sharper and built for what’s next.”

Additional enhancements include:
.Updated to spotlight the diverse markets Dext serves
Faster access to key information and news
A smarter chatbot to help users quickly find answers and navigate the site
Easier access to Dext’s Payments Portal and DART partner platform
A marketplace featuring equipment available for direct purchase
Kevin Lok explains, “"The new website features streamlined navigation, an enhanced mobile experience and expanded educational resources designed to help businesses make informed financing decisions. Visitors will also find updated information on Dext Capital’s financing solutions, technology offerings, and industry expertise.” DextCapital.com

The Certified Lease & Finance Professional (CLFP) Foundation is pleased to welcome its newest class of CLFPs: Industry professionals who have demonstrated mastery of the equipment finance body of knowledge by passing the rigorous CLFP Exam. Representing diverse companies and roles across the industry, these individuals have joined an elite community united by a commitment to professional excellence and ethical practice. They are:
Ali Alsalman, CLFP – Senior Account Manager, First Citizens Bank Equipment Finance
Andrea August, CLFP – Team Lead – Capital Equipment Group Documentation, U.S. Bank Equipment Finance
Elizabeth Canon, CLFP – Regional Finance Manager, Stryker
Melissa Greenwood, CLFP – Assistant Vice President, Operations Manager, U.S. Bank Equipment Finance
Zane Hanayneh, CLFP Associate – Associate Credit Analyst, Dext Capital
Yvonne Johnson, CLFP – Vice President/Director of Operations for Vendor Markets, U.S. Bank Equipment Finance
Jessica Maiher, CLFP – Account Manager, Premier Client Group, First Citizens Bank Equipment Finance
Allison Midtaune, CLFP – Business Line Regulatory Review Manager, U.S. Bank Equipment Finance
Christopher Mongno, CLFP – Commercial Sales Enablement Specialist, First Citizens Bank Equipment Finance
Jessi Olson, CLFP – Officer, Loss Mitigation Specialist, U.S. Bank Equipment Finance
Shannon Piekarski, CLFP – VP, Business Line Risk Manager- Equipment Finance, U.S. Bank Equipment Finance
Deidre Scherr, CLFP – Project Analyst, U.S. Bank Equipment Finance
Carol Streeter, CLFP – Account Manager, Premier Client Group, U.S. Bank Equipment Finance
Max Teunissen, CLFP – Senior Finance Specialist, Stryker
Robin Thompson, CLFP – Assistant Vice President/Operations Manager, U.S. Bank Equipment Finance
Ryuta Tsubura, CLFP – Assistant Sales Manager, LEAF Commercial Capital Inc
Sandra VanBuren, CLFP – CEO and Co-Founder, FS Foodservice Solutions
Jody Van Drunen, CLFP – Document Negotiations Manager, U.S. Bank Equipment Finance
Megan Wipperman, CLFP – Senior EF Relationship Specialist, First Citizens Bank Equipment Finance
Ali Alsalman says, “I chose to pursue the CLFP designation because I wanted to challenge myself and gain a deeper understanding of the equipment finance industry beyond my day-to-day responsibilities. Having spent years managing lease portfolios and supporting customers throughout the lease lifecycle, I have always enjoyed learning how all the pieces of our industry fit together.
“The CLFP Journey and Academy for Lease & Finance Professionals course provided an opportunity to expand my knowledge of accounting, tax, legal, and financial concepts while connecting them to real-world leasing practices. I am proud to join a community of professionals dedicated to advancing the equipment finance industry.”
Earning the CLFP designation signals more than technical expertise. It reflects a commitment to elevating the equipment finance industry through continuous learning, ethical leadership, and shared professional standards. CLFPs and Associates are now found across the United States (including Puerto Rico), Canada, India, Pakistan, Africa, New Zealand, and Australia. To learn more or begin your own path to certification, visit www.CLFPFoundation.org
Melissa (Mel) Vinson, CLFP, is the Vice President & Development at the CLFP Foundation with five years at the foundation. As Director of Academies, she helps potential new members through becoming a CLFP at [email protected]
Mel’s Advice:
“I always strongly encourage any CLFP candidate to review the CLFP Toolbox as a first step in preparation: https://clfpfoundation.org/toolbox/.
Several resources including a study guide and a sample study schedule that can be utilized to work towards success with the CLFP Exam. Working with peers or a team is an exceptional way to embark on this journey and learn together.”
Fees and Refunds
A fee of $695 is payable with the filing of the application. This includes a $30.00 non-refundable fee to cover the cost associated with a public records background check of the applicant. Applicant acknowledges that the $30.00 fee will be non-refundable, even if the application is declined.
Applicants may pass parts of the Examination; therefore, the applicant may retake those parts of the Examination that the applicant has not passed as many times as necessary. The re-examination fee is $265.00, provided that all parts of the examination are passed within one year from the date of the first Examination. If the Examination is not passed within one year, then the entire exam and payment process as outlined above is repeated. Payments may be made by credit card, PayPal or check, subject to collection.
In the event that after payment of the application fee, the applicant is not able to sit for the CLFP exam, the applicant may request a hardship withdrawal. In case of a medical emergency or other extenuating circumstances, refunds of only the $665 exam fee will be considered. The request for such a waiver must be made in writing and e-mailed to the CEO ([email protected]) who will present the case to the CLFP Board of Directors.
Questions may be directed to [email protected]

July 9–10, 2026: Virtual ALFP (Hosted by CoreTech Leasing)
September 15–16, 2026: In-Person ALFP (Hosted by Solifi in Minneapolis, MN)
October 14–15, 2026: In-Person ALFP (Hosted by TEL in Chattanooga, TN)
October 19–20, 2026: In-Person ALFP (Hosted by Wintrust Specialty Finance

Where should I focus my efforts to drive the most business?
What industry should I call on?
What equipment type is hot?
My answer has always been the same: it doesn’t matter which industry or equipment type you choose. There is opportunity in every corner of the commercial equipment finance and leasing industry. The real difference between average and exceptional originators is not the sector they pick. It’s the depth of expertise they’re willing to build.
Expertise Outperforms “Easy Business”
Chasing what looks like easy business never leads to sustainable success. Top producers win because they choose a niche that genuinely interests them and then commit to understanding it deeply. They learn the equipment, the players, the challenges, and the language. Over time, they become trusted resources and advisors, not just another salesperson.
Pick a Niche You Actually Enjoy
Becoming a true player in any niche requires work, curiosity, and dedication. That is why the niche must be one you genuinely enjoy. You should want to spend time with the people in that sector; the kind of professionals you would gladly meet for a relaxed lunch and meaningful conversation. When you appreciate both the industry and the individuals within it, the hard work becomes part of the natural rhythm rather than a burden.
The Bottom Line
There is no “best” industry.
There is no “hottest” equipment type.
There is only the niche you are willing to master.
Wheeler Business Consulting is working with individual originators.
his "Sales Tip" is provided by Wheeler Business Consulting. Comments, questions, and suggestions regarding weekly tips are welcome.
Phone: 410-877-0428
email: [email protected]

September 15 - 16
Brokers Expo, New York City
Click here for the Funders Forum Broker expo
Ed Castagna, CEO, In Place Auction, will be Covering the Broker Expo for Leasing News Readers
September 28 - 30
NEFA Fall Conference
Omni Atlanta Hotel at Centennial Park
October 20 - 21
B2B Finance Expo 2026
B2B Finance Expo presented by deBanked, returns to Las Vegas for its third and most ambitious year yet—this time at the iconic Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. CLICK HERE for the B2B Financial Expo
October 21 - 23
AACFB Commercial Financing Expo
Hilton Irvine, Irvine, California
CLICK HERE for the AACFB Commercial Financing Expo
Stay Where the Action Will be! Book Your Hotel Room Today
Don Cosenza, CLFP, Senior Vice President, Maxim Commercial Capital, will cover the conference for Leasing News readers
October 25 - 27
ELFA Annual Conference
JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa, Palm Desert, CA
ELFA looks forward to welcoming you to the premier event for the equipment leasing and finance industry, our 65th Annual Convention being held Oct. 25-27 in Palm Desert, Calif.
This is where leaders reconnect, new ideas take shape and members gain the insights that move organizations forward. The theme — "Invest, Empower, Expand" — reflects exactly where we are as an industry and where we are going next. Registration opening soon!
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