Get to know Chairman of the CCIFP Certification Board of Trustees, Patrick Cebelak, CCIFP. He took time out of his day at Triangle Associates in Grand Rapids, MO to answer these ten questions!

Q: Do you have any regrets?

A: I do not have any regrets because I do not choose to live my life looking back on what I could or should have done. I learn from the past and focus on what I can do in the future to achieve or succeed, both professionally and personally.

Q: What’s your guilty pleasure?

A: My guilty pleasures are a fine glass of bourbon and a good cigar.

Q: Do you have children?

A: I have two wonderful daughters, Amanda and Kristin. They are fantastic kids and it is a pleasure watching them grow and become young adults.

Q: What have you learned about being a leader?

A: As a leader, I have learned to hire the best talent you can, give them the best tools and education to do their job, and get out of the way; let them do their work and hold them accountable.

Q: What do you do to unwind from work?

A: I enjoy boating and the water. I love to get out on the lake and take in the natural beauty to unwind from work.

Q: Where did you grow up?

A: I grew up in central and western Michigan, in the towns of Grand Rapids and East Lansing.

Q: What career advice would you give to your 18-year-old self?

A:  The career advice I would give to my 18-year-old self would be to be more patient. All does not have to be accomplished overnight.

Q: Are you married?

A: I will have been married to my wife, Joanne, for 30 years in October.

Q: What do you collect?

A:  As I have gotten older, I enjoy collecting memories/having experiences with others and sharing time with people I love. 

Q: What is something you can never over-invest in?

A: You can never over invest in the people you love and care about. Give them your time, energy and support.