When Laura Mendoza moved from Northern California to attend the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, she envisioned a career as a celebrity stylist in San Diego. But after graduation, opportunities in that field were limited. “Like many young professionals, I couldn’t find work in my realm,” Laura recalls. “I’m still a stylist on weekends, part-time—that’s kind of my side hustle.”

Her entry into financial services came through a serendipitous connection. A client of her hairdresser worked at Pacific Advisors and an office manager position was opening. Laura interviewed and was hired starting a career she never anticipated. Over the past nine years, she has grown within the company, progressing from office manager and back-office coordinator to recruiting coordinator, and now serves as Director of Recruiting, a role she has held for nearly six years.

Her experience at Pacific Advisors gave her a front-row seat to the industry, from operations to underwriting, and highlighted the profound impact advisors have on their clients’ lives. Laura says she loves her work because it mirrors the relationships advisors build with their clients. “I get to build relationships and connect with the community, which has been a big focus for me. The last couple of years, I’ve really found my footing and my place,” she notes.

Laura was introduced to NAIFA by Heather and Marc Bregman and was drawn to the organization’s sense of community and commitment to professional development. Programs like LILI had a transformative impact on her leadership approach. “Many of our top leaders went through LILI, and now that I’m a graduate, I understand why—it’s life-changing,” she says. During the program, she brainstormed ways to reach more advisors early on. At the agency level, she is now helping build a playbook for new advisors, outlining best practices for getting started, including becoming a NAIFA member.

“What drew me to this industry is the unique combination of opportunity, impact, and growth,” Laura explains. From her early days at Pacific Advisors, she witnessed how advisors make a real difference—helping families, supporting businesses, and creating lasting security. She sees financial services as a career that rewards creativity, dedication, and integrity, while providing opportunities to positively impact clients’ lives.

In her leadership role, Laura focuses on recruiting, mentoring, and developing talent. She helps professionals align their strengths with meaningful opportunities, fosters a culture of growth, and supports the next generation of leaders. She also recognizes the importance of NAIFA’s advocacy work, noting that regulations and policies directly affect advisors’ ability to serve clients. While she hasn’t yet engaged politically, she is eager to participate in advocacy efforts at both state and national levels.

Reflecting on her career, Laura emphasizes the fulfillment that comes from helping others succeed. She encourages other professionals to join NAIFA, highlighting the network, education, and advocacy that strengthen both individual careers and the profession as a whole. “Being part of NAIFA means having a community and a voice that helps us grow as professionals and make a greater impact,” she says.

Laura credits her mentors, her community, and the opportunity to help others for shaping her journey. “Success isn’t just about numbers—it’s about persistence, growth, and the impact we make on others. NAIFA embodies those values, providing connection, advocacy, and professional development that empower us to do our best work.”

With her commitment to growth, leadership, and mentorship, Laura Mendoza continues to inspire colleagues and clients alike, leaving a lasting footprint on the financial services industry and the NAIFA community.