MIKE A. SILVA JR., CFP®, AIF®, MBA
Investment Advisor

Mike is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional who draws on his background in coaching and education to help clients pursue their goals and improve their quality of life. He is passionate about building lasting relationships where trust and understanding sit at the core of every interaction. Mike believes that relationships and processes alike can be strengthened through communication that is positive, empathetic, and strategic communication that leaves people feeling empowered to take action for their future. His personal philosophy is simple: “coach the positive!”  

Mike found his way to financial services after a career as a professionally competitive skydiver and wind tunnel (indoor skydiving) operator. As a competitor, he became a world record holder for the largest free-fly formation and a nine-time U.S. National Champion in formation skydiving. That world demanded sharp decision-making and constant attunement to people’s emotions and comprehension—skills he now brings to every client conversation, explaining complex concepts clearly while helping clients feel confident about what lies ahead. 

A dedicated lifelong learner, Mike recently earned his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® certification and holds the Accredited Investment Fiduciary® (AIF®) designation, along with the Series 6, 63, 65, and SIE registrations. He earned his MBA with a focus in entrepreneurship and completed his undergraduate degree in hospitality management at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He continues to pursue additional education and credentials to ensure his clients benefit from evolving, effective financial strategies.

Service to others has shaped Mike since he earned the rank of Eagle Scout, Scouting’s highest honor. Today he is an active member of the Rotary Club of Minnetonka, where he is proud to make an impact close to home through the club’s focus on supporting and developing the youth of the community. He also participates in charities such as Mustaches for Kids Twin Cities, which gives back locally to kids in need. Mike’s approach to both his work and his community reflects Rotary’s Four-Way Test of the things we think, say, or do: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned?   

Mike lives in Minnetonka, Minnesota, with his wife, Alissa, and their Brussels Griffons, Burt and Beulah. In his free time he enjoys skydiving, flying in the wind tunnel, rock climbing, cooking, aviation, lake life, boating, wake surfing, video games, building/programming/racing drones, and learning new skills.

MARC BENNETT, AIF®
Investment Advisor

Marc is an accomplished Energy Infrastructure Consultant and now Financial Planner based in Denver, Colorado. With a Doctorate in Audiology specializing in Hearing and Balance, Marc brings a unique and diverse blend of expertise to his role. He has lived in 8 States!

As an Energy Consultant, Marc excelled in project management. Acting as the central point of communication, he ensured smooth coordination among stakeholders, keeping projects on track and everyone informed throughout the entire lifecycle.
Marc’s background as an Audiologist enhances his diagnostic abilities, allowing him to identify and address complex issues effectively. His experiences include guiding patients through challenges and providing them with strategies to improve their quality of life.

Currently serving as a financial planner at GWS&A, he manages diverse financial planning scenarios, from cultivating client relationships to delivering tailored strategies that meet individual needs. Collaborating closely with firm partners, he champions financial literacy education as a valuable benefit for employers to offer their employees. His role is multifaceted, encompassing client management, strategic financial planning, education, product expertise, and thorough documentation. Engaged in both high-level strategy and day-to-day operations, he positions himself as a trusted financial partner, dedicated to helping clients achieve their financial goals.

Outside of work, Marc enjoys staying active with gym sessions, occasional bouldering, and snowboarding. He's also an avid College football fan and a member of the Referrals Partners Denver networking group. When it comes to leisure, Marc's interests range from media marathons to indulging in exotic cuisines with good company or lending a helping hand whenever needed. And if you're up for it, he might just take you on a hike with the promise of a brewery visit afterwards!