Fran DeMaris Award Winner, Katrina Martin’s Journey Through Cannon Trust School

Katrina Martin’s journey into the trust and estate planning industry is a story of transformation, driven by a passion for client service and the right educational opportunities. Beginning her career in hospitality, Katrina discovered early on that her true calling lay in serving others. This realization guided her from hospitality to banking, and eventually into the trust industry, where she found her ideal role as a Trust Officer at Cumberland Trust.

However, transitioning into this complex field required more than just passion—it required specialized knowledge and credentials. A year into her career as Trust Officer, Katrina started to pursue the Certified Trust and Fiduciary Advisor™ (CTFA™) designation, a decision that would mark a turning point in her career. Encouraged by her employer’s strong partnership with Cannon Financial Institute and the glowing recommendations of her colleagues, Katrina chose Cannon Trust School as her educational partner to gain knowledge and prepare for the exam.

“Cumberland has a strong partnership with Cannon, and many of my coworkers had gone through the program,” Katrina explains. “They spoke highly of Cannon’s structured approach, the program’s reputation, and how well it prepared them for the CTFA™ exam.”

The decision to enroll in Cannon’s Trust School wasn’t just about earning a credential—it was about deepening her understanding of the trust industry and solidifying her commitment to her career. Cannon Trust School and its comprehensive curriculum, covering everything from estate planning and tax law to fiduciary responsibilities, provided Katrina with the knowledge and skills she needed to excel in her role.

“The CTFA™ adds legitimacy to my resume and shows my partners and clients that I’m committed to the industry,” says Katrina. “It’s not just something I’m passing through; it’s a passion.”

What truly set Cannon apart for Katrina, however, was the quality of instruction and the sense of community she experienced, even while completing the program remotely. The instructors at Cannon brought a wealth of real-world experience to the table, making the material engaging and relevant. Their ability to translate complex concepts into practical applications was invaluable, especially for someone navigating a new industry.

“The instructors didn’t just present textbook material; they provided practical applications from their industry experience,” Katrina recalls. This practical approach, combined with the strong support and engagement from her peers, made her learning experience at Cannon both rich and fulfilling.

Even in a virtual setting, the Cannon community shone through, offering Katrina the support and encouragement she needed to succeed. The small group interactions allowed her to ask questions, explore complex concepts, and receive feedback in a safe and collaborative environment.

Looking back on her journey, Katrina offers valuable advice for future students: “I would encourage them to attend in person if they can, as it allows for a deeper focus on professional development. But whether in person or remote, fully engage with the program, ask lots of questions, and absorb as much as you can from the instructors.”

Katrina’s story is a testament to the power of continuous learning and the right educational support. Through her hard work, a passion for learning, and the support of Cannon, she not only gained the credentials needed to advance her career but also the confidence to step into rooms with attorneys, CPAs, and financial advisors and add value to the conversation.

For those considering a career in trust and estate planning, Katrina’s experience underscores the importance of choosing an educational partner that offers more than just knowledge—it offers a community, practical insights, and the tools needed to make a lasting impact in the industry.