Derrick Andrews, CFP®, CEP®

Founder, President / Financial Advisor

Derrick@awallc.com

Derrick Andrews is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® practitioner and a CERTIFIED ESTATE PLANNER®. Since 1988, Derrick has been successfully helping families with financial planning, wealth management, life and long-term care insurance needs as well as wealth transfer strategies.  Derrick has been known for using his “Big Picture” approach to retirement planning which seeks the success of your retirement plan through good and challenging economic times.

Transferring his knowledge to his own firm, Derrick started AWA Wealth Management in 1994. He then opened his office in Auburn, California, close to his hometown of Grass Valley, in 1999. Founded under the premise that financial matters are best conducted on a personal level, Derrick has sought to meet and aimed to surpass the expectations of his clients for more than 30 years.

Derrick graduated from Sacramento State University in 1987 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, Finance and Economics.

Certifications and Licenses:

• CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Practitioner

• CERTIFIED ESTATE PLANNER™ Practitioner

• FINRA Series 7, General Securities Representative Examination

• FINRA Series 63, Uniform Securities State Law Examination

• FINRA Series 24, General Securities Principal Examination

GRANT ANDREWS

financial advisor

Grant joined the AWA Wealth Management team in April of 2022. In 2023, he completed his Series 66 and Series 7 qualifications exams and in 2024 he passed the CA Life Insurance Exam, officially becoming an AWA Financial Advisor. Grant received his degree in Business Administration from Regis University in Colorado in 2020. In continuing to build his industry experience, ongoing education and certifications, and knowledge as an LPL licensed advisor, Grant’s role at AWA will enhance our continued commitment to our client’s success. Grant is excited to work closely with clients to guide and support them as they achieve their financial goals. He strives to bring knowledgeable professional service in every interaction and is available to assist clients with account services and questions. Outside of the office, Grant enjoys camping, exercising, skiing, and sports.

Grant@awallc.com

Certifications and Licenses:

• FINRA Series 7, General Securities Representative Examination, held through LPL Financial

• FINRA Series 66, Uniform Combined State Law Examination, held through LPL Financial

TONI FARKAS

Director, Business Administration & Client Services

Toni joined the AWA Wealth Management team in March of 2017 with a background in business development. Prior to joining our team, she worked for 10 years in upper management, focused on detailed customer service. Over the last 16 years, her career’s major focuses have been in business, marketing, client services, administration, communications, and team development. Toni holds a variety of roles at AWA including operational oversight, compliance, human resources, client and staff management, as well as works closely with clients to ensure they receive the best in customer service care. She serves a diverse range of client needs, from implementing new accounts and account operations to facilitating complex client inquiries and strategies. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from UC Davis. In her spare time, Toni enjoys travelling and being active outdoors with her husband and two young boys.

Toni@awallc.com

T.J. PETERSON

LPL Registered Administrative Associate

T.J. joined the team at AWA Wealth Management in January of 2004.  She graduated from Simpson University with a Bachelor of Arts in Business & Human Resources Management in 2005.  She completed her FINRA Series 6 & 63 and became a Registered Administrative Associate in 2011.  She holds these licenses through LPL Financial.  In 2013, T.J. also completed her studies to become an Enrolled Agent with the IRS.  She provides a vast range of client customer service needs, as well as assisting the advisors with tax planning for our clients.  T.J.’s experience and professionalism ensure the quality of care and service you would expect from our team.  She always strives to provide the best service she can to each of our clients.  While not in the office, T.J. enjoys many outdoor activities.  Her favorite hobbies are camping, hiking, and fishing with her family and friends.

tj@awawealth.com

CHELSEA BAILEY

LPL Registered Administrative Associate

Chelsea joined the AWA team in May of 2011. She completed her FINRA Series 6 & 63, held at LPL, and became a registered administrative associate in 2015. In 2020, she passed her CA Life Insurance exam, and in May of 2022 she graduated from the Pennsylvania State University with a B.S. in Organizational and Professional Communication. Chelsea’s customer service skills ensure that our clients will have a positive experience each time they visit or call.  She looks forward to assisting our clients at every opportunity.  Chelsea helps handle processing new accounts, transfers, beneficiary changes, contributions, redemptions, value inquiries, and assists in the day to day operations. Outside of the office Chelsea enjoys studying the martial art of Tae Kwon Do (of which she earned her 2nd Degree Black Belt in 2022), and performing in theatrical productions at various local theatres. She also enjoys reading and learning as much as she can about anything she can.

Chelsea@awawealth.com