Education & Certifications
PhD – Economics, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
MS – Applied Economics, Marquette University
BBA – Finance and Economics, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
Organization Involvement
Girl Scout Troop Leader
Kristen Carioti
Director of Financial Wellness
PhD
Kristen leads the Financial Wellness team at Spectrum Investment Advisors, helping clients build the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions with their money through Spectrum's GuideSteps® program. An economist and educator at heart, she spent her career researching and teaching topics that shape financial security, from paying off student loan debt to adopting an investor mindset. She is the author of a personal finance textbook designed to make financial freedom accessible to college students, and she brings that same clear, practical approach to her role at Spectrum.
Industry Start Date:
2026
Spectrum Start Date:
2026
Fun Fact:
Kristen loves to talk about trees and can identify over 100 tree species.
Personal Background
Kristen lives in Wauwatosa with her husband and four kids. When she’s not working, parenting, or managing her household with a complex web of Excel spreadsheets, she likes to thrift, puzzle, and thrift for puzzles. She also enjoys getting outside to hike, bike, and watch her kids play sports.
Embodying Spectrum’s Principles
Talking about money requires care and respect. We all make mistakes with money. What matters is how we move forward. I’m passionate about meeting clients where they are and developing resources and content that are inclusive and accessible.