For one alumnus, FCC proves to be a solid investment
Alumni profile: Investment advisor Michael A. Yoshikami
Michael A. Yoshikami at the Fresno City College Class of 2009 Commencement
Investment advisor Michael A. Yoshikami regularly shares economic insight on television, on radio and in print. He has appeared on CNBC, Fox News, Bloomberg TV and Radio, and written guest columns for leading online news outlets. But 28 years ago Michael—who would later found investment advisory firm YCMNET Advisors, Inc.—was hitting the books at Fresno City College.
Michael spent his childhood in Hawaii and Southern California, eventually settling in Fresno. When the time came for college, he chose to attend FCC. “Honestly, it was all I could afford at the time,” he said. “In a lot of ways, it helped me. It allowed me the opportunity to start my education, as someone who didn’t have a lot of clear goals.”
He fondly recalled the support received from FCC faculty: “The instructors were very patient and very supportive as I was trying to find my way, and find what I wanted to do.”
“My mission was to help as many people as I could.”
–Michael A. Yoshikami
Michael went on to receive a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from CSU, Fresno, as well as an MBA from Pepperdine University, a doctorate in education from the University of Santa Barbara, and designation as a Certified Financial Planner®.
In 1981, Michael founded YCMNET Advisors, Inc., a registered investment advisory firm based in Walnut Creek, California. The company helps clients create a roadmap of investment goals and then helps them proceed on that road. Michael serves as president and chief investment strategist. “It’s a business where I can help people fulfill their dreams,” he said. “Every business has a mission,” Michael continued, “and my mission was to help as many people as I could.”
His family’s Hawaiian legacy serves as the underpinnings of his business philosophy. Michael emphasizes a “spirit of communication and embracing other people’s goals. It’s a good foundation for the services we provide our clients.”
FCC alumnus, Michael A. Yoshikami, appears on CNBC as a financial expert on April 13, 2009.
Several cable news networks noticed Michael’s careful approach to investments. He now appears often on news programs providing financial analysis and commentary. Michael said, “YCMNET Advisors, Inc. has a reputation of being thoughtful, and presenting analysis in a balanced way. A calm voice in this type of environment is very, very important.”
Michael recognizes the role his past plays in his current success. He remains an enthusiastic supporter of FCC, including the campaign to renovate the Old Administration Building. In May, Michael served as the distinguished alumnus and commencement speaker at the Fresno City College Class of 2009 Commencement. FCC, he said, is “a place where people have the opportunity to start a career. I think community colleges provide opportunities to those who might not otherwise have them. [Community colleges] welcome anyone who’s willing to work.”
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