Specialized training team

Leading MGIC’s training team for over 20 years, Jeff Platfoot has over 35 years of experience in the mortgage industry, including in positions in sales/origination, underwriting and underwriting management. Much of his focus today is on delivering MGIC’s best-in-class specialized training curriculum, teaching the key skills, techniques and best practices needed to build your team’s confidence within essential areas of industry knowledge.

Jeff is passionate about helping mortgage professionals to compete in today’s fast-paced lending environment. He loves to help customers develop a depth of understanding on a wide range of topics, including origination, loan products, industry updates and processing.

Sandra Sweeney, senior customer trainer and training program developer for MGIC, has a mortgage industry career that spans over four decades. Her previous experience in loan origination, underwriting and management has given her a deep understanding of and appreciation for various industry roles.

In her current role, Sandra oversees the design of many MGIC training resources, including the self-employed borrower income series, the Magic Minutes training series, and income calculation tools. In developing and facilitating training, she aims to break down complex concepts into easily digestible knowledge and help mortgage professionals build the skills to become trusted advisors for their borrowers.

Sandra lives at Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, where she enjoys volunteering for various organizations, boating, and enjoying water sports with her family. 

Stephanie Budnik, AMP, is a senior marketing program manager at MGIC, where she brings together more than 15 years of sales experience and 20 years in training to deliver impactful, customer-centric strategies. Known for her dynamic approach and authentic communication style, Stephanie bridges the gap between customer insights and business goals – empowering lenders and teams to think strategically and act with purpose.

A proud University of Wisconsin–Whitewater alumna and Accredited Mortgage Professional through the MBA, Stephanie’s expertise spans marketing strategy, education, and leadership development. Her contributions earned her recognition as a finalist for the Woman in the Housing Industry – Rising Star Award in 2023 and induction into Who’s Who in America in 2024.

When she’s not helping others connect ideas to outcomes, Stephanie enjoys family adventures with her husband, Andrew, their 3 children – Owen, Olivia, and Elena – and their dog, Hank.