PACE Success Stories: Mitchell Henry

Welcome to our PACE Success Stories series! ASAP's Professional Administrative Certification of Excellence (PACE) positions you as a highly credible professional who is serious about your career in the administrative field. Below you will find the experience of a PACE-certified admin, including how the program has positively impacted their professional goals and career pursuits. 

We invited Mitchell Henry, Compliance Testing Analyst at Republic Bank in Louisville, Kentucky, to speak on his journey towards becoming PACE certified and the success he has experienced as a result.

Why did you decide to pursue certification as an administrative professional?

Mitchell Henry: I chose to pursue certification as an administrative professional to expand my knowledge within the field. I was eager to continue my work as a Legal Administrative Assistant and provide my organization with the benefits and support of a skilled administrative professional. When I was hired for the position, I was the first person to ever hold the position at the company. Therefore, I chose to pursue this certification to not only enhance my skills but to also develop the new position I occupied into the future. 

What was your experience going through the course? How long did it take to complete?

I had a very positive experience throughout the PACE certification course. I chose to pursue this certification in addition to my graduate studies at the time, which was a bit intimidating. However, through effective time management and prioritizing my work, I was able to work through the course in about three months. I found that, even throughout the duration of the course, I was able to implement different skills and strategies into my work in real-time. Seeing my growth as I progressed through the course was a motivating factor in continuing my certification.  

What topic did you enjoy, or think was the most beneficial while progressing through the course? 

I enjoyed the management and leadership section the most. Specifically, learning about the characteristics of good leaders and managers and the objectives of those who are successful because of their skills. Too often, administrative professionals don't see themselves as leaders of their organization – but that is far from the reality! Administrative professionals ARE leaders and can effectively support the environments they work in, no matter how diverse. Learning these skills and techniques allowed me to better support and anticipate the needs of my executives, as well as provide them with the support they needed in a seamless way.  

How has receiving your PACE directly impacted your professional goals and career pursuits? 

Receiving my PACE certification has had a profound impact on not only my career as an administrative professional but also in my other professional networks and ambitions. My certification enhanced my skills as an administrative assistant and showcased my commitment to my career to the executives at my company. Additionally, my certification helped me receive a promotion at my company by proving my dedication to my career growth. I enjoy discussing my PACE certification with other members of the community that I work with as well.  

What advice would you offer to other admins interested in getting their PACE?