Would you believe me if I said the only reason I’m in Austin is because of track? Well, it’s true.
I grew up in small town Yakima, Washington. There isn’t much to do there so I killed time by participating in as many sports I could. Don’t be fooled, I participated in sports but I didn’t say I was good at any of them... at that time.
The moment I was introduced to track, specifically hurdles, I was more excited to just jump over something despite the fact I had no clue what I was doing. If you had seen these flailing arms in the air and the look of terror on my face you would think I should choose a new path other than hurdles. Fast forward to 18 years of age and I’m headed to California on a full athletic scholarship. Recruited for my hurdle skills no less. Life certainly has a sense of humor. What a wild ride leaving my small town for the big city all on my own. Probably best not to get into the details of all the mistakes (or were they) I made in college, but that experienced shaped me. It was tough at times balancing school with D1 collegiate track. I competed in up to 6 different events and got to travel all over the United States. Making some amazing friendships that exist to this day. It was an NCAA meet held in Austin, Texas, that changed everything. The moment the heat hit me and the city was in my sights I knew this was home. Now, to put this into perspective I was living and going to college in San Diego, California. Austin just had something so special about it that made San Diego a stepping stone in my life. Albeit, it took me 7 years after graduating to finally make the move to Austin.
Upon graduation I applied to a boutique Broker Dealer and RIA in San Diego. That is where I really started to learn about investments and enjoyed the challenging industry. I had found something to apply my economics background to. It was a humbling experience working my way up the corporate ladder; starting in Operations and eventually landing in Client Services specializing in IRAs. I was hooked and ready to keep growing. Part of that growth meant that I was finally ready to pack up and move to Austin. I applied and was hired to be a part of what I can only refer to as the beginning of the end, retirement plans! Who knew this ever changing, demanding yet rewarding and fulfilling world would be the path I would follow. As I continue this journey, now as part of SRP, I can’t imagine being a part of anything else.
It’s been since 2012 that I refer to myself as Texan. It wasn’t until a couple years ago I felt I earned the right to say “fixin”. Why is that so much fun to say? I became a first-time homeowner in 2015 and have 3 adorable, spoiled, untrained yet amazing pups. Let me be clear, if my dog doesn’t like you then neither do I. Retired now from track I spend all my free time in recreational sports such as flag football, softball, sand volleyball, running and lifting. I’m lucky to be a part of the Lady Capitals, a traveling flag football team and amazing group of women athletes here in Austin and the surrounding area.
Texas is home.
Heather earned her undergraduate degree in Communications, with a minor in Economics from San Diego State University. While at San Diego State University, she was an All-American athlete on the Track & Field team. Currently, she holds the FINRA 24 and 6 registrations through LPL Financial and Seriess 66 through LPL Financial and Global Retirement Partners. She has received the Qualified 401(k) Administrator (QKA), Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor (CPFA) and the Accredited Investment Fiduciary® designation (AIF®).