About Tri-Star Trust

Achieve your financial goals through personalized wealth management solutions from our team of caring, local, objective experts.

Our History

When Tri-Star Trust was founded in 2000, the founders set out to create a different kind of wealth management firm — one that holds itself to a higher fiduciary standard and one that makes a lasting difference in the lives of all they serve. Their previous experience in the financial services industry made them aware of corporate-centered practices — such as pushing specific products on clients — that did not ring true with them. They wanted to introduce a client-centered firm that takes a genuine, personal interest in its clients, employees, and the community.

Our founders connected with some of the community’s leading figures who share these same core values. These leaders, whose names are synonymous with giving back to the community, have become valued shareholders and board members.

Through strong relationships and an intentional purpose, we have grown to a staff of more than 50 professionals, managing over $2 billion in client assets, contributing to more than 160 local nonprofits, and expanding to four convenient locations in central Michigan (Saginaw, Lansing, Midland and Frankenmuth).

Since 2000, our services have been focused on financial planning, investment management, trust administration, corporate retirement planning, and philanthropic solutions for our clients.

Who We Are

Tri-Star Trust offers personalized, comprehensive wealth management solutions. By taking the time to fully understand your needs as an individual, corporation, nonprofit or private foundation, our experienced professionals provide clarity, guidance and mentorship to fulfill your financial vision.

Through the stated values that guide us, our goal is to be your most trusted and valued wealth management partner.

Our Vision
To be the most trusted, valued wealth management partner.

Core Values

Caring — caring for our clients, community and each other
Harmony — working together to provide a higher level of service
Integrity — being ethical, respectful and honest at all times
Objectivity — doing what is right for each client
Enthusiasm — being enthusiastic in what we do every day

Trusted Fiduciary
As a “trust bank,” we must meet a higher fiduciary standard than traditional retirement investment advisor firms (which includes most of the large firms you see advertised on television). As your fiduciary, we are bound ethically to act on your behalf — not on ours.

We focus on the best solutions for your unique situation. We help you understand how we are investing your wealth. Most important, we do not benefit from your individual investment options, meaning our advisors don’t get kickbacks, bonuses, or vacations by recommending certain funds. By removing any possible incentive, we will always be objective when recommending the right solutions for your needs. Our incentive is your success!

Higher Purpose

We live here. We understand you. We listen.

At Tri-Star Trust, we specialize in personalized wealth management solutions, treating your assets as if they’re our own. Not only will you get a team of experts committed to simplifying your life and meeting your unique financial goals, you’ll get a team of people who care.

Conscious Capitalism

By clicking on the links below, you will be leaving Tri-Star’s website.

We are part of the Conscious Capitalism movement — believing that business can make a positive impact on all of the people it touches and the world we share together. Business can elevate humanity and practice consciously, focusing on a higher purpose, stakeholder integration, conscious leadership, and a conscious culture.

We are active members and sponsors of the Great Lakes Bay Region chapter of Conscious Capitalism. You are welcome to join in this movement.

Article by Tri-Star President and CEO, Gene Pickleman: Why Conscious Capitalism

Giving Back

Our higher purpose drives how we make a positive, long-term impact in our local communities. In addition to helping individuals, foundations and endowments make an impact through charitable services, our personal commitment to giving back as a company and as individuals remains unwavering.

We understand that we exist for reasons beyond just making a profit. Tri-Star Trust has proudly given back an average of 10 percent of our earnings annually as grants/donations to the communities we serve.

To learn more about the Tri-Star Charitable Foundation, Click Here.

Organizations We Supported in 2019.
Organizations We Supported in 2020.
Organizations We Supported in 2021.

Sponsorships and Charitable Contributions

Each year, Tri-Star provides sponsorship and support to help finance the efforts of non-profit organizations within our communities. The charitable commitment is achieved through sponsorships made directly by Tri-Star Trust.

Financial support is intended to build community relationships by supporting the charitable work of our employees, clients, and customers.

Our Focus
We provide donations and sponsorships in the following broad program areas, but focus on the first three priority areas. All areas of consideration are listed below.

● Stewardship and Sustainability:
Support environmental and social well-being
Basic needs (food security)
– Rid abuse, neglect, and homelessness
– Emphasis placed on organizations servicing youth
● Affordable Housing:
Improving housing stability
– Emergency, transitional, and permanent housing
● Economic Development:
Catalyze economic growth and prosperity
– Capital investment
– Job creation and retention
– Strategic growth initiatives
● Arts & Culture
● Health
● Emergency Services

Are you interested in being considered as a community partner? Reach out to community@tristartrust.com

Board of Directors

Tri-Star Trust is fortunate to have an outstanding Board of Directors driving our higher purpose. The board is made up of leaders in both business and the community. Their message remains consistent: provide the highest-quality wealth management solutions and be a leader in community service.