Personal Finance: Maximizing Income & Building Wealth

Date: 

Tuesday, December 8, 2026
Lunch: 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Session: 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM

In this session, you’ll learn:

How to prioritize your money:

• 401(k) match → Roth IRA → additional investing
• Investing Basics (index funds, long-term strategy)

Compensation optimization:

• Bonuses, raises, negotiating offers
• Taxes at a high level (how contributions reduce taxable income)
• Common mistakes (lifestyle creep, under-saving despite good income)

Target Audience: 

Designed specifically for those looking to lay the groundwork for strong financial habits, manage their income effectively, and make informed decisions about saving, investing, and long-term financial planning. Only open to professionals working for contractors signatory to Local 8 or 533, or for MCAKC associate members.

Mercedes Givens, CFP®, is a Private Wealth Manager for Creative Planning, where he helps clients create and maintain customized financial plans that address investments, tax planning, risk management, retirement, employee benefits and estate planning. He brings more than 15 years of experience in financial services, including previous work as a wealth advisor at a major regional bank. Throughout his career, he has focused on helping clients achieve their financial and personal goals.

A graduate of Occidental College, Mercedes earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics for Business Management and is a Certified Financial Planner® professional.

He and his wife, Shayne, have three children: Samone, Eden and Bentley. Outside of work, he enjoys cooking, golfing, reading, spending time with family and roller-skating, something he is still freakishly good at.

Cancellation Policy
Cancellations for this MCAKC event must be received at least 2 business days prior to the event by email to [email protected] or by phone at 913-948-9200.

Registrants who do not cancel and do not attend (“No Shows”), except in the case of an emergency, will be invoiced $100.