8+ years working with 401(k) and pension benefits

Jon Akerman

  • Accredited Financial Counselor® (AFC®)
  • 8+ years working in the retirement sector
  • Volunteer weekly
  • Took multiple leave of absences to serve in the US military
  • 5+ years managing family budget

Expertise

Accredited Financial Counselor® (AFC®)  and member of the Association for Financial Counseling & Planning Education® (AFCPE®), which supports me in continually becoming a better financial coach through continuing education.

Studied financial mathematics and general finance topics, while graduating summa cum laude with a bachelor’s of science.

My Story

Right out of a college, I was hired at a global consulting firm and lived in the thick of it right off Times Square. I managed to squeeze in a brief vacation during the peak busy season. That short break unintentionally provided me with a much-needed moment of reflection and self-evaluation. 

I realized I was dissatisfied with my work and where I was living. I wanted a change but didn’t know what that change was, so I did what any frustrated person would do- I stumbled along for some time, but decided to open myself up to change. Some changes were intentional and some serendipitous:  relocated to a new state, began working remotely (before Covid made it cool), met and married my best friend Brandi, joined the Army National Guard and served overseas. Now I prioritize volunteering on a weekly basis and dedicating my time to what holds great significance to me.

Being in a place of financial strength allowed me to take a step back when I needed to most so that I can take care of my mental health. It allowed me to search for what I wanted unencumbered by financial restraints. This is a true gift of being financially strong.

When not coaching, you can find me with family, playing with my cats, volunteering, actuaring, travelling or jump roping.

Two truths one lie. I have:
1) 7 cats
2) over 50 first cousins
3) been to 24 countries


I am also a member of the Financial Coaches Network to support me in continually becoming a better financial coach through continuing education, implementing coaching best practices, and other resources.