Chi Guerrero, CFP®, RMA®, CIMA®

Annapolis, Maryland Chi Guerrero believes financial literacy is a fundamental skill that everyone needs and wishes it were part of public-school curricula. “I was fortunate to have parents that taught me to save and live within my means. And because of my upbringing, I thought that was just common knowledge. Over time, however, I have learned that’s not the case. I want to educate and guide my clients in every aspect of their financial decisions to help them achieve their financial goals.”

“Money isn’t everything, but it does give you freedom,” says Chi. “To me, money is a tool and people need to learn how to use it. I believe that successful investing is goal-focused and planning-driven.” In the three and a half years she’s been in the financial services industry, this has been her focus.

Her employer, HeimLantz, is a full-service accounting and financial advisory firm whose mission is “Making Lives Better” by providing comprehensive financial services to individuals, families and businesses. Currently a paraplanner with the firm, Chi has been exposed to a wide range of clients with many different types of needs. Her passion – the reason she became a financial advisor – is developing strategies to enable people to achieve their financial goals.

“I gained foundational knowledge and skills through the CFP® program. Pursuing my Certified Investment Management Advisor® (CIMA®) certification only made sense to deepen my knowledge in investments to better serve my clients. At this stage in my career, I do not yet have my own clients, but once I do, I know that I will be prepared to serve them with confidence.”

HeimLantz, which places a high value on client-facing team members having professional designations, was supportive when Chi expressed interest in pursuing the CIMA® certification. Knowing she had the firm’s support was important as it offered reassurance that she could successfully complete the program. The scholarship she received from Investments & Wealth Institute enabled her to move ahead with advanced education much sooner than she anticipated.

“I feel so fortunate to be the recipient of the Investments & Wealth Institute scholarship. The Institute’s standards are very high and it’s an honor to be part of this community. Completing the program has given me a real sense of pride and accomplishment. I would encourage anyone who’s looking to advance their career to consider applying for the scholarship. The experience has been invaluable.”