For nearly two decades, Ashlee Wochholz has been guiding clients toward their financial goals. Now she’s taking her expertise to the next level.
Since 2008, Ashlee has worked in the insurance and financial services sector, becoming a licensed financial advisor in 2017. At INB, she serves as Investment Advisor Representative on our Osaic Wealth team serving Central Illinois, where she helps clients plan everything from retirement income strategies to multigenerational wealth transfers.
To better serve her clients and stay ahead in a constantly evolving industry, Ashlee achieved two major professional milestones.
Planning for the Future: CRPC®
Ashlee earned the CRPC® (Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor) designation, a professional credential for financial advisors specializing in retirement planning.
CRPC® professionals are trained to guide clients in creating a comprehensive retirement strategy, including pre- and post-retirement needs, healthcare, Social Security, asset management, estate planning and more.
To obtain the CRPC designation, Ashlee had to complete a specialized retirement planning course at the College for Financial Planning and score at least 70% on a proctored exam.
“After earning this designation, professionals also must complete 16 hours of continuing education every two years to maintain it,” she explains.
Business Retirement Planning: QKA®
Even though earning the CRPC® was a lot of work, Ashlee didn’t slow down!
She recently obtained the Qualified 401(k) Administrator, or QKA®. This designation, awarded by the American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries, recognizes a deep understanding of 401(k) plan management, compliance testing and regulatory reporting.
It’s a rigorous program with online courses and multiple exams that typically takes up to two years to complete.
“Essentially, a QKA® professional is equipped to handle the technical and administrative aspects of 401(k) plans, ensuring they operate effectively and remain compliant with relevant laws and regulation,” Ashlee shares.
Her commitment will directly benefit INB clients as the Wealth team expands its focus on 401(k) and business retirement planning.
“What I love most about my job are the people and team goals; we’re servicing clients the right way and treating each other the right way,” Ashlee says. “And as our Wealth team focuses more on retirement strategies, it’s imperative we have the knowledge to do so.”
Staying at the Forefront of Financial Planning
Ashlee’s pursuit of advanced credentials isn’t just a personal goal; it’s also supported by INB.
“INB is a huge supporter of getting designations that will help set us apart from our competitors, and the bank financially supported me in this endeavor,” Ashlee shares.
Designations are more than just letters after a name. With her growing expertise and a strong team at INB Wealth behind her, Ashlee can help shape a future where clients can feel confident in their plans — and their advisor.
“Continuing education is essential to holistic financial planning,” Ashlee says. “Regulations and rules change all the time. It is the financial professionals’ duty to make sure they are aware of all the changes to ensure we are providing our clients with the best, knowledgeable service possible.”
Contact Ashlee today to talk about your business retirement planning.
