In a few words, what does being a “Trailblazer” mean to you, and how did your path into wealth management begin?
To me, being a trailblazer means creating space where it did not previously exist and then holding the door open for others behind you. I entered wealth management early in my career in a support role and worked my way up by staying patient, being open to learning something new and challenging every day and leaving my ego at the door (which took time). I refused to believe my starting point defined my ceiling. I also learned early on the importance of staying true to myself and leaning into what I knew I was good at, listening to people, caring deeply, and building trust. My path was not linear, but it was intentional, and it taught me that persistent hard work and good intentions far outweigh your educational background or title.
When you first entered the industry, what did the landscape look like for women, and what early lessons still shape how you lead today?
When I entered the industry, women were significantly underrepresented, especially in leadership and advisory roles. Early on, I was intimidated and often hesitant to speak up in meetings. Over time, through experience and mentorship, I learned that your voice deserves space even when you are the only woman in the room. A mentor once told me, “Do not become a product of your environment. Help your environment become a product of you.” I have carried that with me by intentionally bringing a positive attitude into my work environment. Positivity can be contagious when paired with persistence, and I have found that staying optimistic, collaborative, and consistent helps create a culture where both clients and team members feel understood, supported, and heard.
What challenges have you faced along the way, and what mindset or skills helped you push through and keep going?
One of the biggest challenges was overcoming self-doubt, especially in moments where I felt underestimated. What helped me push through was shifting my mindset from needing permission and validation to taking ownership. I focused on doing the work exceptionally well, staying curious, and trusting that if I leaned into my strengths while staying grounded in empathy and care, the other pieces would fall into place.
Where are you today in your career, and what unique perspectives do you believe women bring to wealth management and leadership?
Today, I am a Partner and Client Advisor at Steadmont Advisors, where I work alongside an incredible team to focus on holistic financial planning and support women and families through important life transitions. Women bring empathy, long term thinking, and a natural ability to balance logic with emotional intelligence, all of which are invaluable in wealth management. This is a relationship driven business, and women are especially well suited to listen, care, and help guide clients through both the financial and emotional aspects of decision making.
Looking ahead, what excites you most about the future of women in wealth management, and what advice would you give to the next generation of trailblazers?
I am encouraged by how many women are stepping into leadership roles and redefining what success looks like in this industry. My advice to the next generation is to lean into your strengths, find a niche you are genuinely passionate about, and surround yourself with people who make you feel heard and supported. I am very fortunate to work alongside men and women who value collaboration and ability over gender, and that kind of environment makes all the difference. When you feel supported, confidence and momentum naturally follow.
Is there anything else you want to share?
I am deeply passionate about helping women build confidence around their finances. When women feel heard, understood, and empowered, it does not just change their own lives. It creates a ripple effect that impacts families, communities, and future generations.
More About Amy Drinkard, AWMA®: Amy is a Founding Partner and Client Advisor at Steadmont Advisors. Originally from Troy, Alabama, Amy has called Birmingham home since 2011. In 2022, she achieved the Accredited Wealth Management Advisor℠ (AWMA®) designation through the College of Financial Planning, a testament of her commitment and dedication to her work and her clients. Amy utilizes a holistic approach to assist her clients in realizing their short-term and long-term financial aspirations. She believes in building a personal connection with her clients to better understand their unique needs. Honored for her leadership and commitment to empowering others, Amy was named one of the Birmingham Business Journal’s 2025 Women to Watch.
Amy earned her bachelor’s degree in business from Troy University, where she discovered her love for connecting with people and understanding what makes businesses thrive. After graduating, she dove into the fast-paced world of sales, spending her time traveling across the Southeast and gaining invaluable hands-on experience in relationship building. In 2012, she made the move to Merrill Lynch, where she found her true calling in finance — helping individuals and families navigate their financial journeys. For Amy, finance has never been just about numbers; it’s about trust, understanding, and making a real difference in the lives of her clients.
Outside of work, Amy finds fulfillment as a wife to Hawkins and a mom to their three children — daughters Stevie and Birdie, and son Van. A proud member of the Church of the Highlands, Amy also contributes to the community by serving on the board of FGM, LLC, an organization dedicated to hosting annual events that raise funds for a diverse array of non-profit causes. Amy also loves to immerse herself in Birmingham’s vibrant food and music scene, travel, and embrace an active lifestyle through exercise and being in the great outdoors.
