YMCA-YWCA Education Staff Earns International Trade Certification

Michael Uzoma Agu earned the Certified International Trade Professional (CITP®|FIBP®) designation in December 2025, a milestone rooted in a career spanning global energy and international trade operations. His journey began in Nigeria’s energy sector, where he worked with Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited and Shell Nigerian Gas Company. These roles immersed him in international gas sales, finance, and cross-border business development, offering early exposure to the mechanics of global commerce.

Energy Sector Foundations

• Shell Nigerian Gas Company: Led finance teams during system migrations, gaining insights into operational complexity.
• International Accounts: Managed cross-border financial processes and regulatory compliance.
• Project Management: Spearheaded data migration from SUN to SAP systems, reflecting adaptability in evolving business environments.

Working within Shell’s global framework, Agu handled commercial, financial, and regulatory intersections across markets. A standout project involved leading the finance team responsible for migrating Shell Nigerian Gas data from the SUN system to SAP. While not a trade initiative, the role honed skills in managing complexity and cross-functional collaboration—abilities that would prove critical in his later career.

“At Shell, I gained valuable insights into the operational and financial aspects of international trade in the energy sector,” Agu stated. These experiences provided a foundation in financial processes underpinning global commerce, including international account management and the day-to-day movement of money, products, and information.

Expanding into Canadian Operations

Agu’s career shifted to Canada through his role at Atlas Graham Furgale Ltd., where his responsibilities broadened to include international trade operations. He managed accounts payable and receivable while facilitating import and export activities, applying energy-sector expertise to a new business environment. The position deepened his understanding of market-specific requirements and regulatory frameworks.

“I enjoyed working with Atlas Graham Furgale Ltd in Canada, managing international trade operations and expanding the company’s global reach,” Agu explained. The transition reinforced a key lesson: adaptability is essential for international trade professionals managing diverse markets, regulations, and customer expectations.

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This commitment to learning led Agu to FITTskills, where he sought to formalize his practical experience with structured trade education. “Taking the FITTskills courses was super valuable,” he noted, highlighting the program’s relevance to logistics, finance, and marketing. His preferred course, International Sales & Marketing, equipped him to manage cultural and market differences effectively. The credential helped bridge practical experience with theoretical knowledge, preparing him for the CITP designation.

Agu pursued CITP to recognize his achievements and signal his dedication to advancing in international commerce. “Earning the CITP designation was an incredible achievement,” he said. “This recognition highlights my expertise and accomplishments in international trade.” The credential serves as both validation and a tool for future opportunities, reflecting his belief in continuous growth and contribution to the field.

As he looks ahead, Agu anticipates the CITP designation will enhance his credibility and open doors to more impactful roles in the international trade community.

Professional Contributions and Ongoing Development

In addition to his instructional roles, Agu participated in FITTskills’ industry advisory council. This forum brought together practitioners to identify skill gaps in the trade workforce and recommend curriculum updates. His perspective on the intersection of energy and traditional trade proved valuable when addressing gaps in sectors undergoing digital transformation and sustainability transitions.