Meet Our Team

Jeremy is the CEO and Founder of Fortitude Financial and a seasoned Wealth Advisor. He leads the firm's direction and champions client success. With over 22 years in the financial services industry, Jeremy's expertise spans investment management, financial planning, and economic research, emphasizing an exceptional client experience.

Jeremy holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a focus on International Business and Finance, accompanied by a minor in Spanish. Quickly transitioning into financial advising post-graduation, he also earned the Certified Mutual Fund Counselor certification shortly thereafter.

Beyond his professional role, Jeremy is deeply committed to community service, proudly contributing to the Youth For Christ (YFC) Foundation and various local charities. He also spends a portion of his free time nurturing his passion for music and inspiring the younger generations through building his own studio and label. His innovative "Giving Back" program at Fortitude empowers each employee with a charity budget, fostering impactful contributions to meaningful causes. Explore the Giving Back page to discover the organizations supported by Jeremy and his team over the years.

Ben is a Wealth Advisor at Fortitude Financial, where he has been an integral part of the team since January 2013. His journey reached a milestone in November 2022 when he rose to the position of Partner, underscoring his significant contributions and dedication to the firm's success. Specializing in comprehensive financial planning, Ben guides clients towards their goals through client reviews, trades, and investment analysis.

A Summa Cum Laude graduate in Business Administration from Eastern Washington University in 2011, Ben holds a major in Marketing and an emphasis in Finance. His commitment to professional growth is evident through earning the Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP) designation in 2016 and the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation in 2017.

Beyond finance, Ben treasures family time with his wife, three kids, and their dog, Grace. Balancing work with a passion for running, golfing, and snowboarding, Ben embodies the commitment to financial success and a well-rounded life. 

In over 14 years with the firm, Noelle has been the driving force behind its success. Joining as an Administrative Assistant in 2010, she rapidly expanded her role, becoming a skilled LPL Registered Administrative Assistant by 2013. Noelle's journey mirrors the firm's growth, with her expertise now extending to office operations and practice management, as well as becoming a Partner in July 2024.

Integral to the organization, Noelle oversees internal operations, ensuring seamless functionality. She guides the front office staff in marketing, event planning, compliance, and enhancing client experiences. Noelle's remarkable growth and dedication make her an indispensable part of the firm's fabric.

Away from the office, Noelle enjoys time at home with her husband and three children, exploring the scenic surroundings of the Pend Oreille River. Their outdoor pursuits, from hiking to discovering local parks and trails, mirror Noelle's vibrant approach to both work and life.

Since joining the firm as the front office administrator in May 2019, Joni has seamlessly expanded her role in the firm. Promoted to CCO in early 2021 at the founding of Fortitude Financial as a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA), and a Front Office/Admin manager, she helps to ensure the smooth operation of the office and fiduciary success of the firm overall.

Joni brings a wealth of experience in customer service and trust administration, while graduating Eastern Washington University and graduating with a Bachelor of Science Honors Degree for both Economics and Political Science in 2014. Her dedication to continual advancement is evident as she further develops her knowledge in the wealth management industry. As further validation of her ongoing dedication, Joni formally secured her designation (IACCP®) in March 2025.

Beyond the office, Joni finds joy in family time with her husband and two grown children, along with their lovable energetic pets. Her various interests include enjoying music, watching sports (especially NCAA basketball), playing games, cooking, baking, gardening, decorating/organizing, and embarking on road trips. 

“I love that I work somewhere with people who are like another close family, including the clients – It makes me look forward to coming into the office every day. I really love what I do.”

Matthew is a dedicated and accomplished financial professional with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration Management from Eastern Washington University, where he graduated in 2020. His passion for continuous growth is evident through his recent attainment of the prestigious ChFC designation from the American College of Financial Services in 2023.

As a Financial Analyst, Matthew's responsibilities are multifaceted. He excels at entering data and meticulously preparing financial plans for presentation. He's the force behind the daily trading for the book of business, ensuring that investments are closely monitored. Beyond finance, Matthew adds a dose of fun to the office by making sure every holiday is celebrated with enthusiasm.

Beyond numbers, Matthew enjoys video games, snowboarding, hitting the open road, and playing with his dogs. He's a well-rounded individual who thrives on both financial analysis and life's adventures. On weekends, Matthew cherishes time with his energetic nieces and nephews, bringing a balance of joy and warmth to his life outside of finance.

James is the newest addition to the Fortitude Team. Currently on the advisor track, his career vision and goal are dedicated to helping clients achieve their financial goals through tailored solutions and exceptional service. His entrepreneurial journey began at just 13 years old when he launched a yard care business, which he successfully scaled and eventually sold. While pursuing a business degree at Concord University, James further developed his skills in business management and strategic planning.

After college, James built a thriving book of business in the Medicare insurance industry, gaining valuable experience in client service, along with the extensive knowledge in financial planning gained during his time working for a national broker-dealer. Now with Fortitude Financial, he has found his ideal fit in financial advising. Soon to become a licensed Wealth Advisor, James is committed to growing his expertise and contributing to the firm’s success.

Outside of work, James balances his professional life with a love for family, friends, adventure and the outdoors. Whether hunting, riding dirt bikes, or traveling to take in breathtaking views, he embraces life with enthusiasm and a sense of purpose. Recently married to his childhood sweetheart in April 2025, he looks forward to a bright future both personally and professionally as a valued member of the Fortitude Financial team.

Catherine is an experienced Tax Professional and Enrolled Agent (EA) with 17 years of hands-on experience. Joining our team in 2021, she holds the IRS's highest credential, highlighting her exceptional qualifications. Her expertise spans multiple tax seasons, with a focus on payroll and sales tax, and she's successfully managed a diverse clientele, including farms, retail, manufacturing, business owners, and trusts.

In her role as a Tax Professional, Catherine goes the extra mile to assist clients with their individual tax preparation needs during the off-season. She's also the backbone of Fortitude's day-to-day accounting and bookkeeping operations, ensuring the financial engine runs smoothly.

Her commitment also extends beyond the office; she's actively involved in her community where she was born and raised. She holds the Chairman's position on the local School Board, serves as the Fire District Secretary for the third-largest district in Washington State, and is the unofficial leader of the Community Swimming Pool Foundation.

Outside the office, Catherine finds solace and excitement out on the golf course, where she hones her skills and takes in the joys of the game. When the weekends are warm, you’ll often find her embracing the scenic beauty of Lake Roosevelt. Her dynamic interests reflect her vibrant personality both at work and beyond.

Kerry is the caring voice you hear when calling the office or the first smile you will see when being welcomed into the office. She began her journey here in July 2024. Bringing with her 20 years of experience in the mortgage industry, she has the perfect demeanor and skills to compliment Fortitude’s close-knit environment. She is always ready and happy to assist in tasks where needed and is a perfect addition to the Fortitude team.

Originally from California, Kerry has called Spokane home since November 2013. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Business and Management from Redlands University. She is a single mom of one and a proud grandma of two. She enjoys road trips with her dad and grandchildren, as well as camping, fishing, attending concerts, and watching sports. Her love for animals and people adds a personal touch to her vibrant personality.

“I absolutely love working with everyone at Fortitude and consider it one of the best jobs and employers I’ve ever had.”