From the First Cohort to the Fall Session: Reflections on the Peak Trust Management Certificate Program

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“This program will help bridge the current gap and serve professionals across the country who are entering or advancing in trust-related roles,” said McCloskey, Director of the University of Delaware Trust Management Minor.

“And most importantly, it directly addresses a critical industry need: structured, accessible, and expert-led education in trust management. Participants benefit from a remote, applied curriculum tailored to working professionals, without the need to put their careers on hold.”

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A Career-Building Experience

The inaugural class featured students from all stages of their professional journeys, which enriched the learning environment and underscored Peak Trust’s goal of reducing barriers to career advancement. The program also offered sessions led by executives from J.P. Morgan, Brown Brothers Harriman, and Peak Trust. Along with the bi-weekly networking opportunities, students participated in a collaborative discussion board, creating space for peer networking, reflection, and ongoing professional support.

Results That Translate

When asked about his experience, a student shared, “I would highly recommend the certificate process. I gained more knowledge and rounded out my skills, especially in the areas of trust administration, trust taxation, and trust operations.”

Of the 20 students in the first cohort, nearly a quarter are already working directly in the trust industry, with others applying their skills in wealth management or preparing for trust-specific roles. This early success illustrates the program’s impact, both academically and professionally. Participants have reported accelerated career development and greater confidence in applying their knowledge in real-world contexts.

Looking Ahead: Growing the Trust Talent Pipeline

The second cohort of the Peak Trust Management Certificate Program kicked off on October 6, 2025, building directly on the success of the inaugural class. With continued input from industry leaders and a refined curriculum shaped by participant feedback, this new cohort is off-to-the-races.

Looking ahead, the program continues to work toward formal recognition as a qualifying course for the Certified Trust and Fiduciary Advisor (CTFA) exam—a move that reflects both the caliber of instruction and the program’s expanding influence in the professional development pipeline. But for Jennifer McCloskey, the vision extends beyond credentials. “Your trust company is only as valuable as your employees,” she said.

As the only program of its kind the certificate combines accessibility, industry expertise, and flexibility to create a truly unique pathway into the trust field.

Amidst an evolving trust landscape, the need for trained, forward-looking professionals is more urgent than ever. With an emphasis on real-world readiness and long-term career advancement, this program is not just filling a gap—it’s actively shaping the next generation of trust professionals.