Please join us in congratulating Paul Szkotak, our Q1 Hard Hat Award winner in the Membership category!

As a dedicated member of the National Membership Committee, Paul has invested countless hours into enhancing NAIFA’s new member onboarding experience. His thoughtful input and strategic vision have laid the groundwork for a refreshed and more impactful welcome process—one that ensures new members feel connected, informed, and valued from day one.

“Receiving the Hard Hat Award is particularly meaningful because it recognizes the behind-the-scenes work of building on a 135+ year tradition of volunteers coming together to support our industry,” Paul shared. “This award highlights the value of constant improvement—something essential in both membership development and my role as a financial advisor.”

Paul’s service on the Membership Committee stems from a deep belief in collaboration and legacy. Having benefited from mentors throughout his career—from real estate to Wall Street—he sees NAIFA as a vital network that connects professionals and strengthens the industry. “I could never be the advisor that I am without the benefit of all those who came before me and chose to share their experience and knowledge to improve the industry,” he noted.

In recent months, Paul has been instrumental in efforts to revamp the new member journey. His work includes streamlining the onboarding process, improving the welcome experience, and strengthening connections between new and existing members. Thanks to his collaboration with NAIFA’s dedicated staff, the onboarding process is evolving into one that’s clearer, more engaging, and easier to navigate.

“I’m most excited about the tangible improvements we’re making: a redesigned welcome package, enhanced orientation programs, a refined onboarding email sequence, and even an on-demand orientation option,” he said. “These changes make the NAIFA experience accessible and meaningful from day one.”

Paul sees this work as more than just administrative - he believes it will have a lasting impact on NAIFA’s growth and retention. “Effective onboarding creates a multiplier effect,” he explained. “Each well-integrated member becomes an advocate, potentially bringing 2–3 others into NAIFA over time.”

His motivation to build and grow NAIFA comes from seeing the passion and hard work of its staff and volunteers. “It’s inspiring to be part of a community that constantly strives to be better than it was yesterday,” he said. “NAIFA’s pillars—advocacy, education, and recognition—empower us as professionals and help elevate financial literacy across the board.”

When asked what advice he’d offer to other members looking to get involved, Paul emphasized the power of focused passion. “Master the one aspect of NAIFA that excites you most, then share it. Become the go-to person in that area, and use that as a platform to connect with others. Conversations with fellow members often uncover the most meaningful ways to contribute.”

While NAIFA is still in the process of implementing Paul’s recommendations, his leadership has already made a lasting impression on how we engage and retain our members. His efforts reflect the true spirit of the Hard Hat Award—rolling up his sleeves and helping to build something better for the entire NAIFA community.

Congratulations, Paul—and thank you for your commitment, insight, and the energy you bring to our mission.

Paul Szkotak, ChFC
Financial Advisor
Agent, New York Life Insurance Company

Financial Advisor offering investment advisory services through Eagle Strategies LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser & Registered Representative offering securities through NYLIFE Securities LLC (member FINRA/SIPC), A Licensed Insurance Agency. Eagle Strategies and NYLIFE Securities are New York Life Companies, New York Life Insurance Company

100 Witmer Road, Suite 100, Horsham, PA 19044 Office: (215) 441-3240
Mobile: (609) 332-7007
Email:pszkotak@ft.NewYorkLife.com