Our Financial & Insurance Professionals
Chad Nielsen
Founder & Educator
After managing several business ventures in different industries over his life, Chad began working in the federal benefits space over 30 years ago. Since then, he has founded Gateway Financial, Gateway Insurance, and the Federal Benefits Advisory Group to help serve those who served us for so long. Noticing that many federal employees still need to receive the full benefits made available to them, Chad set out to improve the lives of those around him through his financial expertise and solutions made available through Gradient Investments. Since devoting his career to helping others Chad has become a reputable name and trusted advisor for those entering retirement.
Beyond helping others secure their financial futures, Chad has continually served his community just as long. His community and civic work includes a 30+ year relationship with various non-profits and volunteering within community organizations in many different capacities. Chad also enjoys spending time with his wife, Kay, and their 5 children. As a family, they enjoy outdoor hobbies such as fishing, hunting, riding snowmobiles, and boating.
Carson Nielsen
Advisor & Educator
Carson has been with our company for nearly a decade now, learning to work within all aspects of the business giving him a unique perspective into the financial journey our clients will take. After graduating from a top 3 financial planning institution and working his way up through different roles, he now offers a comprehensive solution to many of our clients in their path to retirement. Beyond this, Carson has truly embodied the culture and values of our business by working with clients to meet their needs as if they were part of our family. He truly believes in our mission to help serve those around us by helping them get the most out of their finances and it has continually shown through his efforts with others.
Outside of his financial expertise, Carson enjoys time with his wife and their child they just welcomed into the world. When he’s not being a devout father or contributing to his community he also enjoys outdoor activities with family and friends.
Jaxon Knighton
Advisor & Educator
Jaxon is a financial advisor with a passion for empowering individuals to navigate their financial journeys. As an Alumnus of UVU, a top 3 financial planning institution, and an experienced professional in business advisement; Jaxon brings years of insight to helping clients secure their financial futures. Jaxon continually finds purpose in his role by “demystifying financial planning as an accessible and enjoyable experience.” He continually demonstrates our values through fostering genuine relationships with his clients and caring for their needs on an individual basis.
Outside of finance, Jaxon enjoys time spent with his family and engaging in outdoor activities whenever possible. With a commitment to both personal and professional fulfillment, Jaxon exemplifies the ideal blend of expertise, approachability, and a genuine passion for helping others achieve financial well-being.
Madelyn Dobbe
Advisor & Educator
Madelyn has a deep drive to help federal employees navigate their benefits and step into retirement with clarity and confidence. She believes that everyone deserves a holistic retirement plan—one that brings peace of mind by aligning both insurance protection and investment strategy.
As a licensed life insurance agent and registered Investment Advisor Representative, Madelyn provides personalized financial guidance tailored to each client’s unique needs. At the Federal Benefits Advisory Group, she plays a key role as both an educator and advisor, simplifying the complexities of federal benefits and empowering clients to make informed decisions about their future.
She brings a strong background in marketing, client relations, and strategic business development, with a constant focus on improving systems and enhancing the client experience. Madelyn earned her B.A. in Public Relations with a minor in Business from Brigham Young University.
Outside of work, she enjoys playing competitive recreational volleyball, watching her favorite rom-coms, and indulging in all things chocolate. She has become an integral part of the Federal Benefits team and remains committed to improving the lives of those we serve.
Mikki Beck
Educator & Financial Professional
After graduating from UVU with her Bachelor’s in Marketing and Business Administration, Mikki began her career in the family business working in logistics and administration. Half a decade later, Mikki plays a vital role in the day-to-day responsibilities of running our operations and helping us all perform our roles to the best of our abilities. Being the youngest and only daughter in the family business, Mikki set out to make a strong impression in her field by continually applying her education and values to improve the lives of our clients and team. She is a vital member of our company who should be recognized for her diligence and effort in keeping our goal of serving others moving.
Beyond work, Mikki has just celebrated her Marriage and a new chapter of life within Idaho. She loves to spend time with her family and friends while staying physically active through a lifelong passion for volleyball.
Allie Hunter
Administration & Logistics
Doing full-time public policy research in Washington, D.C. ignited Allie’s ambition to serve federal employees through the Federal Benefits Advisory Group. Because of her educational background in Political Science at Brigham Young University, Allie recognizes the crucial role federal employees play in our governing system. As she manages day-to-day operations and client services for Federal Benefits, she feels grateful to be a part of such a value-based organization. Allie is dedicated to Federal Benefits’ mission to educate and provide financial assistance, especially amid the ever-changing dynamics of legislation, policy reforms, and political uncertainty.
Outside of work, Allie enjoys all styles of partner dance, including country swing or salsa. She nerds out over international politics and the Dune franchise. With the Utah mountains as her backyard, she often camps, hikes, and draws local birds.
Aubrey Cowdrey
Administrative Assistant
Aubrey is an Administrative Assistant at Federal Benefits, where she supports daily operations, client communication, and business development initiatives. With experience in past administrative roles and a well-rounded background, she brings organization, reliability, and a proactive attitude to every aspect of her work. Aubrey has a strong passion for building meaningful client relationships and constantly looks for ways to improve the systems and spaces around her. Her attention to detail and commitment to getting things done right make her a dependable part of the team. Outside of work, she enjoys staying active—whether it’s playing recreational soccer, mountain biking, or hitting the trails. She’s also passionate about the outdoors and finds fulfillment in contributing to efforts that help improve the lives of others.