Edward Jones financial advisor Richard (Rick) Halsten believes his job is “all about helping clients attain their long-term financial goal.”

The objective might be investing for retirement, saving for college expenses for children or grandchildren or protecting the financial future of loved ones.

Halsten this month celebrates five years of operating his business at 17100 E. Shea Blvd., suite 640.

It is his second position in financial services. Before joining Edward Jones, he was employed by an insurance company.

He grew up in the Chicago area where he earned a bachelor of science degree from Western Illinois University with an emphasis in computer science and math.

Halsten received a master’s of business administration degree from Keller Graduate School of Management. He concentrated on accounting.

Later in his career, he developed software development for a large software house in Chicago before opening his own firm in 1990. He conducted business in 40 countries and 39 states.

For three seasons, Halsten prepared taxes, giving him valuable insights for financial planning.

Several of his clients own small businesses, a different element from many Edward Jones advisors.

“That means I have a lot of different business retirement plans,” he explained. “So, I can help businesses set up 401Ks, simple IRAs (individual retirement accounts) and SEPS (simplified employee pension plans).”

Halsten admits his value proposition is “probably no different than any other Edward Jones financial advisor.”

“I take the time to understand what is important to my clients,” said Halsten. He said he provides strategies to help his clients achieve those goals and then partners with them to make sure they stay on track.

“What makes me so special or different? I think it’s my life experience.”

His office administrator, Corinne, said Halsten has a knack in effectively communicating with prospective clients.

“Instead of selling products, I really am more about coming up with solutions to their problems…It’s making better use of what they have,” he said. “I really feel that I do what is in the best interest of my client.”

In addition to investing clients’ funds, Halsten sells life, long-term care and disability insurance and annuities.

He is a member of the current Leadership Academy class.

He and his wife have two adult daughters. In his leisure time, Halsten enjoys playing the piano; so much so that a baby grand piano takes up a good portion of his office.

He golfs and is a trivia enthusiast.

The office telephone number is 480-836-1142.