Two local credit union professionals have been selected to participate in the prestigious 2025 “Crash the GAC” program. They join 53 other young professionals from across the country chosen by The Cooperative Trust to attend the Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC) in Washington, D.C., from March 2-6.

This year, the Maryland and DC region will be represented by:

Michael Ches, Branch Manager, Baltimore County Employees FCU (Maryland)

Sandra Patino, Sr. Operations Experience Manager, IDB Global FCU (DC)

The “Crash the GAC” program offers an intensive, career-enhancing experience for young professionals that includes leadership development, education on credit union history and philosophy, advocacy training, and discussions on key legislative topics. Participants also benefit from valuable networking opportunities.

“Crash the GAC” is an initiative of The Cooperative Trust from Filene Research Institute and is made possible through the generous support of America’s Credit Unions, in partnership with credit union leagues.