Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephen Carter.
Hi Stephen, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I started my career at a very young age as I had the opportunity to graduate early from school and enter the workforce. My career started in the technology sector which was incredibly interesting to me. While the work itself was enjoyable, it was not as fulfilling as I wanted it to be. I spent a significant amount of time researching alternative career paths in fields that I felt would make a difference in individual lives. I wanted my work to matter, and I wanted to be remembered as making a positive impact on as many families as possible. I was encouraged by an extended family member to investigate financial planning as a career path. I can recall being drawn to personal finance and money management as early as age 15 when I tried to open my first investment account. Prior to becoming a Financial Advisor I completed my MBA and the industry required licenses. Once licensing was completed, I pursued and completed multiple certifications and designations to gain industry specific knowledge. During that time, I joined Ameriprise as they provided both a training program and real-world experience. I have been in this industry, with this firm, for more than 20 years. During this time, I have been able to achieve the personal gratification I sought, and we continue to positively impact our clients lives every day.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Financial Planning as a service provides unique challenges that change frequently. In addition to the normal complexities of any service business we have additional challenges to navigate that come from external factors such as market uncertainty or volatility. It is a great responsibility to help provide financial security and confidence to clients during uncertain times.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am an independent Financial Advisor, and Franchise Owner affiliated with Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Our office provides financial advice in the areas that matter the most to you. Our work together is driven by your individual needs and goals. We specialize in helping our clients achieve their financial goals thorough a lifelong relationship. Our work together allows our clients to focus on the other areas of their life that deserve their attention. We are proud that our work enables our clients to feel informed, empowered, and relieved.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
Our industry will continue to evolve in both advice and investment offerings. Demand for our services is increasing rapidly due to age, population growth and wealth accumulation. Navigating investment options and complexity will become increasingly important as clients look for more personalized investment solutions. As the industry ages, we believe it is increasingly important to work with both an advisor and a firm that has generational planning capabilities that can provide confidence to clients that they will be taken care of over the long-term.
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Image Credits
Felicia Reed Photography
