After earning a finance degree from Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, Tyler Engelhaupt entered the insurance industry, initially seeking a case manager role with a focus on financial advising. Instead, he found himself in a sales position at Ash, where his career quickly flourished. Specializing in annuities and retirement planning, Tyler now works alongside other advisors to help clients achieve their retirement goals through customized financial strategies.

Tyler’s career path was further shaped by his involvement with the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA). Mike McGlothlin, a loyal member since 1993, first introduced Tyler to NAIFA and he attended a NAIFA event in Fort Wayne. He was impressed by the networking opportunities and the vital role the association plays in the industry. Motivated by this experience, Tyler joined NAIFA in 2023 and is now set to begin his first term on the NAIFA-Indiana board in 2025. He looks forward to contributing to the organization’s initiatives, particularly those aimed at bringing younger professionals into the industry. Tyler believes that while universities effectively promote business and finance, they often overlook the diverse career paths within the insurance sector. He encourages students to explore the many opportunities in insurance, from sales to actuarial work, as a promising career alternative.

Tyler’s drive for success in the insurance industry is fueled not only by the financial rewards but also by his desire to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives. He finds satisfaction in advising clients, providing them with multiple solutions, and ensuring they have the necessary resources to meet their retirement goals. The industry’s continuous learning opportunities also attract him, and he is currently studying for his Series 7 license. Tyler appreciates that the insurance field offers unlimited growth potential, allowing him to continually evolve in his career.

In his current role as an internal wholesaler at Ash Brokerage, Tyler and his partner manage a team of 140 advisors in North Carolina and Virginia. He is dedicated to offering fast, responsive support to the advisors he works with and thrives in the collaborative, team-oriented environment. Tyler’s long-term goal is to transition into an external wholesaler role, where he would manage his own territory and engage more directly with clients, building stronger relationships and offering personalized services.

Although Tyler is still relatively new to NAIFA, he is eager to expand his involvement in industry advocacy. He has expressed interest in attending NAIFA’s Congressional Conference, aiming to gain firsthand experience advocating for the industry on a national level.

Overall, Tyler values the mentorship and networking opportunities NAIFA provides. His involvement in the association has helped him grow professionally and personally, and he believes it plays a crucial role in supporting the growth of the industry. With his passion for helping others and his deep understanding of the financial and insurance sectors, Tyler is committed to advancing his career while contributing to the future of the profession.