Karen Backlun, CFP®, CEA

Financial Advisor | Educator | Client Advocate

Originally from Regina, Saskatchewan, Karen Backlun brings over two decades of diverse experience in education and financial services. After earning her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a minor in Anthropology from the University of Alberta in 2001, Karen spent nearly 10 years as an Adult Educator in Alberta and abroad. Her passion for helping others learn and grow naturally transitioned into a career in financial planning after she moved to Calgary in 2005.

Karen is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and Certified Executor Advisor (CEA), holding a Financial Planning Diploma from Mount Royal University. She has also completed the Investment Funds Course, Life Licensing Qualifying Program, and ETF Course, reflecting her commitment to continuous learning and professional excellence.

Karen is an active member of FP Canada™, MDRT, and the Canadian Institute of Certified Executor Advisors—organizations that uphold rigorous standards in financial education and client service.

Outside of her professional life, Karen is passionate about martial arts, travel, and spending quality time with her family. Her approach to financial advising is rooted in education, empathy, and empowerment—ensuring her clients feel confident and supported in every stage of their financial journey.

Jennifer Wood, B.MGT

Jennifer Wood is an experienced Office Manager and Administrative Assistant who graduated from the University of Lethbridge in 2000. With a strong passion for client communication and service, Jennifer is currently pursuing her insurance license to better support and serve clients. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, reading, and hosting dinners with friends. Jennifer is married and a proud mom of two active high school boys, balancing family life with her professional growth and dedication to client value-added services.

Amanda Morin, B.ED & B.SC

Amanda Morin is the Administrator for our office. She holds a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Education from the University of Alberta. Amanda previously taught high school science in Calgary. A proud mom of two teens, she enjoys cheering on her children in their extracurricular activities and spending quality time with her family.

Hillary Aitken, BA & B.SC

Hillary Aitken is a Part Time Administrative Assistant who graduated from the University of Calgary with a BA and a BSc in Geology. In 2014 Hillary left the Oil and Gas industry to start her family. She enjoys cooking and gardening with her four children when she's not shuttling them to their various activities.