After practicing law for nearly a decade, Tyler O’Dell made a big pivot last year into the world of finance. He discovered, through his work in the courtroom, that each person had a unique story or goal to address—a lesson he plans to carry over to his new line of work. Based in Grand Junction, he’s one of our newest remote advisors, but still one of our favorites. We’ve asked him a few questions below so you can learn more about his past and his position at EdgeRock. Welcome to the team, Tyler!

First things first—what does your job entail at EdgeRock?

My role at EdgeRock is to help clients find the optimal path for success when it comes to their financial goals. Every financial situation is unique and no two clients are alike. As such, each situation requires a tailored plan to the specific needs of our clients and their families. I love meeting with individuals and families to learn about them and how I can help.

Tell us about your background. How did you end up in finance?

I spent the last 8-9 years of my life studying law and then practicing as an attorney protecting the people of Mesa County. To do my job, I had to negotiate agreements that achieved justice for victims and the community and I had to develop successful strategies for the courtroom. Similar to my current job at EdgeRock, no two situations are alike, and it was always a team effort. Even during all of that finance has always been a part of what I do each and every day. When I have free time, you will generally find me reading books on finance and business or studying the financial market. The tactical part of being an attorney translates very well into the tactical part of being an advisor. The chance to work with my oldest brother, Kyle O’Dell, was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that I simply couldn’t pass up.

What do you like most about this job so far?

The part I like the most about this job is that I’m truly doing what I love which is helping others achieve success in their finances. I ignored this calling for far too long. When everyone was told to quarantine during the early part of COVID, it gave me a lot of time to sit back and gain perspective on what I was doing and what I wanted the rest of my life to look like. There’s nothing like pursuing a career that you truly enjoy day-in and day-out.

What is the best career lesson you’ve learned?

This one is REALLY tough! I think the hardest thing to do is earn the trust of others. I have spent the majority of my career making big decisions in big situations where there’s little to no room for error. The only way I’m allowed to make those decisions is if I gain the trust of those who are depending on me to make the right decision, at the right time, for the right reason. Trust is never easy to earn, is incredibly easy to lose, and is almost impossible to repair. In short, once you have earned the trust of others, do everything you can to keep it.

What is your biggest achievement to date—personal or professional?

I think my biggest professional accomplishment to date was becoming a successful trial attorney. It was a really difficult and stressful job but I did every type of trial major trial from murder, attempted murder, arson, aggravated robbery, drug trafficking—and the list goes on. My best personal accomplishment is marrying my best friend, Lauren.  She and I are complete opposites but so very perfect for each other.

What do you like to do when you aren’t working?

When I am not working you can find me fishing, hunting, or spending time with my wife, and our dog, Zeke.  There are few things I like better than chasing bugling elk in the Rocky Mountains, fishing for Sockeye Salmon on the Kenai River in Alaska, or cooking something new with Lauren.