Ryan Robillard

Paraplanner

My passion for financial planning began during my freshman year of high school. After being introduced to the profession through a few industry connections and job shadowing opportunities, I quickly realized that personal finance was the path I wanted to pursue. I’ve always been intentional with money—drawn to budgeting, investments, long-term planning, and finding the right balance between saving and spending. I loved the idea of helping others bring structure and purpose to a part of life that often feels overwhelming. The more I learned, the more I saw how personal finance could be a way to make a real difference in people’s lives—not just by managing dollars and cents, but by helping them reach goals, reduce stress, and gain peace of mind. What began as a personal interest evolved into a deeper passion for helping others gain clarity and confidence in their own financial lives.

A pivotal moment in my journey came during the early part of that same freshman year. In English class, we were asked to write letters to our future selves to be opened as seniors. In mine, I remember writing that in four years I wanted to attend UW–Madison and one day become a financial planner. Four years later, the week of graduation, I opened that letter and realized I was doing exactly what I set out to do. That moment reaffirmed my belief in setting clear goals and following through with discipline and purpose.

While attending UW–Madison, I earned a degree in Personal Finance – Financial Planning. I also stayed active outside the classroom—joining the UW Men’s Club Basketball Team and serving as a Resident Assistant. Being an RA taught me valuable lessons in leadership, emotional intelligence, and navigating complex conversations—skills that have directly translated to my early career in financial planning. It also gave me a meaningful way to manage my own finances by significantly reducing costs for housing, food, and tuition.

In the summer before my senior year, I passed the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) exam and joined Macco Financial Group as a Financial Planning Intern. After graduating in May 2025, I transitioned into a full-time role as a Paraplanner. I feel incredibly fortunate to be living out the vision I set years ago and am excited to continue growing in the profession as I prepare to sit for the CFP Board’s competency exam this fall.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time working at my grandpa’s farm, hunting in the fall, traveling, and spending time with friends and family. I’m also an active member of St. Louis Parish in Dyckesville, WI, where I’ve served and ushered since I was young. Whether I’m meeting with clients or spending time outdoors, I strive to stay grounded, curious, and committed every step of the way.

Favorite Quote: If you never take risks, you’ll always work for someone who does” -unknown