Today we’d like to introduce you to David W. Trammell.
So, before we jump into specific questions about what you do, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I am currently a licensed financial advisor with First Command Financial Services. My passion in part for the importance of financial well-being was birthed out of adversity. I fully recognize and appreciate the importance of a compelling financial vision underwritten by specific goals. My financial advisory mission statement is to “Inspire and enable individuals and families in North Texas to pursue their financial goals by orchestrating a holistic financial plan and blueprint.”
The key milestones in my story start with graduating from Nurnberg American High in Germany. I was fortunate enough to earn a couple of scholarships to the University of Maryland – European Division. This was pivotal because it gave me an early start to my academic career. My first college course was a financial planning seminar. The seminar was a prescient experience in light of my current passion and vocation.
After completing several terms with academic excellence, I enlisted in the U.S. Air Force as a way to fund my remaining college years. I was fortunate to have some success to include support from base leadership such that I earned a selection into the early release commissioning program. I finished my last two years at Texas A&M – Commerce where I also earned my commission in the U.S. Air Force. In fact, I was the last cadet to be commissioned through AFROTC Detachment 830. While in the Air Force, I picked up a Master of Arts degree with a 4.0 GPA – Distinguished Graduate. I was President of Let’s Talk Toastmasters Club with several speaking awards on my record.
I thought the Air Force was going to be my “forever” career, but I chose to resign in pursuit of private sector aspirations. I was recruited by a leading technology company in the Dallas area. I was able to have reasonable success to include several promotions along with expanding leadership responsibilities. During this time, I was an associate professor at a leading for-profit university. I was and continue to be involved in the community. I was a regular volunteer at the Boys and Girls Club and other mentoring organizations. I was also President of BDPA – Technology Thought Leaders (Dallas Chapter) which included a High School Computer Competition (HSCC) Program. I believe in investing in the next generation. It is important to be a visible and responsible role-model. I also picked up a Graduate Marketing Certificate from Southern Methodist University.
During the financial crisis, the leading technology company went bankrupt and I received my long-delayed financial wake-up call which spawned my current passion for financial well-being and wealth creation. It is important to understand irrespective of our chosen profession, that we must make financial proficiency and well-being a priority. I am passionate about my current journey because not only is my “North Star” financial success, but I get to inspire and enable others to pursue their own definition of financial success. I am also part of our stewardship ministry at church whereby we get to emphasize God’s view on financial proficiency and well-being.
My personal mission statement was formulated in 2010 which says “Maximize my God-given opportunities in support of my vision to live and build a life that I can be proud of and a life that models a life lived on purpose and for God.” I want to challenge your readers to have a compelling vision that includes financial proficiency and stability as an important part of their success equation!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It can be said, up until my first career setback in 2009, I was living a charmed life. The setback was a blessing in disguise because it woke me up to the importance of being more proactive in all the key domains of my life. I have had subsequent career setbacks. The setbacks have been due in part to funding and revenue shortfalls. This is why it is so important to focus on building a strong personal balance sheet in order to be prepared for any eventuality. I fully see the challenges and obstacles as part of the journey. It is important to make good decisions to minimize challenges.
Since 2009, I have read over two-hundred books and counting. A key goal is to accelerate my knowledge and insight so that I can improve my decision-making. To me, mistakes are over-rated. I am also working on my own manuscript so that I can provoke and inspire people to become more proactive about financial wellness and stability. In most cases, obstacles and challenges can be mitigated when you have sufficient financial resources. My faith walk has also enabled me to successfully navigate the obstacles and challenges that I have encountered thus far. Faith and prayer will help me successfully negotiate the obstacles yet to come.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with First Command Financial Services – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
I am most proud of First Command’s approach to financial planning. It is a holistic approach that includes cash management, wealth management, and risk management. Cash management is about having a strong cash position that includes an emergency fund and pay-cash fund. The planning also involves a budget analysis such that any recommendation must be within the client’s budget. Wealth management is focused on investing with an emphasis on a globally diversified portfolio. Risk management is about an appropriate type and level of life insurance to protect your family and goals. The standard of care is that of a fiduciary. Being a fiduciary means we must execute our duties and responsibilities with the client’s best interest in mind.
My primary role involves engaging with clients and potential clients to capture and further define their financial goals. It also involves an on-going coaching relationship to help the client stay on track in pursuit of their financial goals. It is an in-person relationship. A differentiating attribute is the comprehensive financial plans that are executed through in-person meetings at no cost to the client or potential client. Admittedly, I am most passionate about the investment pillar. Investing is the best way to multiply your time and talents.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I am focused on building my financial advisory practice to a sufficiently profitable level that includes a demographically diverse client base who are interested and engaged in the pursuit of their own financial well-being (i.e., client-partners). I plan to pursue the coveted Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation. I am currently working on my manuscript with the goal of it becoming my first book. The primary thesis of the book is a journey towards financial well-being and wealth creation. It is about having an abundant life that is supported by sufficient financial resources. I plan to have more speaking opportunities and continue to be engaged in the community. I also hope to have love in my life in the very near future!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.firstcommand.com
- Phone: 972-731-2622
- Email: dwtrammell@firstcommand.com
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