New to industry

[Bruce1]

Being new to the DC 401k industry, what educational material would you all recommend for me to read and or certifications? Any suggestions would be helpful. I'm going through the QKA material from ASPPA -thanks 

[Bill Presson]

That’s a good start. ASPPA has several worthwhile designations to consider and pursue. 

[Connor]

I find that The 401(k) Answer Book is a very good resource.

[MoJo]

You've started in the right place - HERE!  ASPPA's programs are great.  The 401(k) answer book is helpful if you know what you are looking for.  The ERISA Outline Book (and others), as well.  Here, though, on Benefitslink.com you get PRACTICAL information.  Real world issues, industry experts helping out (and not always agreeing - which is a good thing).  To be successful in this industry you need a few things:  1) an appetite for playing in the "gray."  Not everything has an answer supported by law, regs, case law, or other authority.  Embrace it! 2) Step one is to train yourself to be an issue spotter.  Plan sponsors are notorious for running amok.  You have to know what's going on before you can be helpful.  3) Rely on others.  NO ONE KNOWS IT ALL.  I've been doing this for 40 years - and work with a team much younger than me - and I learn something new every day!  I ask questions of them and others.  I post here when I have something I need or "value" I think I can add.  I will never stop learning, nor relying on others to add to my body of knowledge.

Good luck, and see you on this board!

[Belgarath]

All great advice. I'll also mention ERISApedia. A great resource, with some outstanding bells and whistles available.

Furthermore, the knowledge and generosity of their time and expertise among the many participants on this board has helped me immeasurably over the years. While I'm at it, yet another thanks to Dave and Lois Baker for doing such a great job in providing this forum!

[Bruce1]

Thanks all!