Howard County Encourages Professional Growth with CPFO Certification Program
Rafiu Ighile, director of finance for Howard County, Maryland, has spearheaded a new initiative to support and encourage his team to become Certified Public Finance Officers (CPFO). Recognizing the importance of professional development, Ighile’s leadership has made obtaining the CPFO designation more accessible and equitable for employees, paving the way for a stronger and more knowledgeable workforce.
The idea for this program began after Ighile realized that a majority of his team had expressed interest in pursuing a certification program. To meet this demand, he convened a group to discuss how to create a fair and supportive system. The result: a cost-sharing approach where the county covers two-thirds of the program’s expenses, while employees contribute one-third, reimbursed upon program completion. This model ensures affordability while motivating participants to see the program through to the end.
“We wanted to make it as easy as possible for our team to pursue the CPFO certification,” Ighile said. “This program benefits not only the individual employees but also Howard County as a whole. The certification covers everything from budgeting to risk management—all critical areas with financial implications for our work.”
The program launched in early 2024 with the support of the County Administrator, who approved the initiative, recognizing its potential to build a more well-rounded and capable workforce. Already, two employees have started the certification program, with 10 more expressing interest. By 2025, the county anticipates four additional employees joining the initiative.
The CPFO certification is open to any county employee working in a government-related financial role, and its benefits extend across departments. Currently, approximately 30 to 35 employees are eligible to participate. Ighile envisions more individuals from various departments taking advantage of this opportunity in the future. “Once you earn the CPFO certification, it’s yours for life. If your organization offers you a chance like this, you better take it,” Ighile said.
The program’s impact goes beyond the certification itself. Employees who pursue the CPFO designation gain knowledge across a broad spectrum of financial disciplines, making them more versatile and effective in their roles. This increased expertise fosters teamwork and encourages innovative ideas that benefit the entire organization.
The initiative has already spotlighted success stories, such as Angie Moore, who recently completed the program. Her experience highlights how the certification can empower employees and inspire others to follow suit. “Paying it forward is key,” Ighile emphasized, noting the program’s long-term potential to attract and retain top talent. Plans are underway to include the CPFO program as a highlighted benefit in future job descriptions, showcasing Howard County’s commitment to professional development.
“We noticed a few years ago that many employees wanted to pursue certifications,” Ighile said. “People appreciate that we’re making it available to them. It’s an investment in our team and our future.”
Click here to learn more about the CPFO program and to start your own journey in 2025.