Author Archives: Mike Cordak

By Mike Cordak, RICP® As a financial advisor, I’ve had the privilege of guiding innumerable clients toward financial freedom. But there’s another aspect of my life that has profoundly shaped my perspective: my career as a Delta Air Lines pilot. Flying has not only provided me with incredible experiences but has also instilled valuable financial […]

By Mike Cordak, RICP® As an empty nester and a financial advisor, I’ve had time to reflect on my financial journey. I’ve also been thinking about the smartest way I can continue teaching my kids about money. I want to give them the knowledge and skills they need to pursue their ultimate goals and make […]

By Mike Cordak, RICP® The Delta 401(k) Retirement Plan for Pilots is a retirement savings program that offers a variety of wealth management options, including government bond funds, stock index funds, and lifecycle funds.  This plan provides tax-deferred growth on contributions and offers matching contributions from the government. Delta pilots can contribute pre-tax or after-tax […]

By Mike Cordak, RICP® As a financial advisor who specializes in advising my fellow Delta pilots, I’m aware of how difficult it can be to find a balance between a busy schedule and meaningful vacation time. Woodstock, Georgia, provides just the right combination of adventure and relaxation. It’s the ideal destination for a weekend escape […]

By Mike Cordak, RICP® Becoming a professional pilot is a significant career accomplishment, marked by exceptional skill and dedication. But as a 25-year Delta pilot myself, I fully understand that with this newfound financial freedom also comes the responsibility of wise financial planning for Delta pilots. I wrote this article to share the essential financial […]

By Mike Cordak, RICP® Working in the cockpit of a Delta Air Lines aircraft can lead to an exciting career full of responsibility and adventure. But pilot financial planning remains a challenge.  Because of the rigorous schedule, lack of financial skills, and possibility of later career starts, pilots often feel behind on their retirement funds. […]

By Mike Cordak, RICP®  As if Delta Air Lines pilots didn’t already have their hands full, a lasting shortage of pilots has impacted airline operations and flight restrictions. Forbes reported that North American airlines are down 17,000 pilots. Some analysts believe one remedy for the shortage is to raise the mandatory pilot retirement age from […]

By Mike Cordak, RICP® Unless you’ve been living under a rock or ignoring financial news completely, you’re likely to have heard the term “Bitcoin” or “cryptocurrency” over the past several years. Digital currency is a popular and highly controversial financial topic today, mainly due to the unique nature of the asset, how it is created […]

By Mike Cordak, RICP® As a current pilot for Delta Air Lines with over 20 years of experience at the same airline, I have a unique understanding of our retirement and investment benefits. In addition to being a Delta pilot, I’m also an RIA (Registered Investment Advisor). In 2007, I started my own wealth management […]