Getting your asset allocation right is one of the fundamental rules of building a portfolio. Being over- or underweight in a specific asset class could skew your returns or increase your risk. A 60/40 portfolio, which divides assets between equities and fixed income, is a classic approach to allocation.

Looked at your 401(k) statement lately? Your investment accounts are probably doing well overall, but the total still seems too small to maintain your lifestyle in retirement. You know you should have saved more in your 20s and 30s, but it wasn’t easy with a layoff, two kids, buying a home, and taking vacations.

Money is a word that resonates well with you and saving is a word that your parents, teachers or relatives always (probably) talk to you about while pension or retirement is a word that you probably don’t take seriously (or you do, if you are ready to retire).

In 2012, professor David Littell was spearheading the development of a new retirement income education program at The American College of Financial Services that would later become the retirement income certified professional (RICP) designation. He was looking for a professional to help him build out the program, specifically someone with a top-level degree who had experience with ERISA and taxes.