In a few words, what does being a “Trailblazer” mean to you, and how did your path into wealth management begin?
Being a trailblazer means having the confidence to follow your own path toward the destination that’s right for you. Just as no two women are the same, neither should their journeys be. My career path has been anything but linear giving me to opportunity to gather a unique perspective. I’ve gained experience in banking, insurance, employer branding, recruiting, and nonprofit fundraising before ultimately finding my niche in wealth management. Along the way, I also stepped away at times to raise my three sons, which further shaped my intuition and resilience.
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, there were few women in advisory or leadership roles. While I’ve seen progress and increasing representation over the years, it’s clear that women were often held to a higher standard. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the need to be both our own advocates and champions for one another. Although some antiquated views about women’s roles persist, I’ve been fortunate to work within an organization and alongside many who recognize and value the skills, insights, and contributions women bring to wealth management.
What challenges have you faced along the way, and what mindset or skills helped you push through and keep going?
At times, I’ve encountered situations where my expertise or perspective was questioned without a male counterpart present to validate it. Rather than discouraging me, those moments became motivation. While I may not always hold the most power or influence in the room, I rely on professionalism, determination, consistency, and grit. Those qualities have allowed me to prove doubts unfounded and earn trust through results.
Where are you today in your career, and what unique perspectives do you believe women bring to wealth management and leadership?
I’m in an exciting chapter of my career, one filled with challenges to keep me engaged, colleagues who expand my knowledge, leadership that actively encourages my growth, and opportunities that don’t feel limited. I believe women bring a heightened sense of intuition and awareness to wealth management and its leadership, allowing us to recognize the unique value of each individual, need of every client and an understanding of how people can best contribute within an organization.
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’m excited to see outdated gender roles and limitations continue to fade. My advice to the next generation is simple: don’t hold back. Pursue what truly drives you, not what others think you should pursue. You are your strongest advocate, and the only person who can limit what you’re capable of achieving. Find the right place to grow. While you can gain experience and expertise in many organizations, finding an environment that truly supports and challenges you is essential. If you can’t find that place, don’t be afraid to build it yourself. The right people will recognize your value, invest in your growth, and encourage you to reach your full potential.
More About Merritt Carew: Merritt is responsible for enhancing all client service processes for Amplius Wealth Advisors. She focuses on delivering superior client service while specializing in all aspects of money movement, account opening, and ongoing account-related inquiries.
Merritt comes to Amplius Wealth Advisors with more than 20 years of operational, accounting, insurance, and customer service experience with both domestic and international companies.
Merritt is a native of the suburban Main Line area where she currently resides with her family.
