I embarked on my professional journey with a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting in 1991, becoming a Certified Public Accountant in 1995 and later a Certified Financial Planner in 2002. My career began at a large regional CPA firm in Western New York, where I worked from 1993 to 2000. During this time, I had the opportunity to work closely with a design and manufacturing business that later became my employer as I took on the role of CFO from 2000 to 2007. This transition allowed me to achieve a better family balance while my stepdaughter attended middle and high school.
The path to my career was shaped by personal experiences. At the age of 19, I faced the challenge of independence following the loss of my parents. Inspired by my stepfather, a hard-working businessman, I pursued accounting, recognizing its potential to provide a stable and rewarding career. The financial challenges I encountered during this time highlighted the importance of sound financial advice, fueling my passion for helping others maintain or enhance their quality of life.
I find great fulfillment in working with clients to pursue their financial goals, particularly in planning for retirement. This stage of life is one of the most significant decisions a person can make, both in the journey to get there and the path during retirement. Splitting my time between Medina, NY, and Eureka, MO, I cherish both communities as wonderful places to raise a family. My wife, Jan Schickling, stepdaughter Justine, and granddaughter Marianna are my greatest inspirations, with Justine and Marianna being the reason for our office in Eureka, MO. In my free time, I enjoy fly fishing and working outdoors, hobbies that allow me to connect with nature and find balance in life.