--- title: "A Community of Experts: Our Partners in Success" description: Explore how Castle Rock PEP collaborates with top experts in recordkeeping, investment, and legal guidance to ensure successful retirement planning for clients. image: https://cdn.marblism.com/ua2z-XykQ90.webp --- [Skip to content](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/a-community-of-experts-our-partners-in-success#main-content) ![Castle Rock Logo](https://castlerockpep.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Castle%20Rock%20Logo%202026-1.png?width=1536&height=1024&name=Castle%20Rock%20Logo%202026-1.png) - [Home](https://castlerockpep.com/) - [About Us](https://castlerockpep.com/about) Show submenu for About Us - [Community Page](https://castlerockpep.com/community) - [Blog](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom) - [Contact Us](https://castlerockpep.com/contact-us) - [Pooled Employer Plan](https://castlerockpep.com/pooled-employer-plan-1) Show submenu for Pooled Employer Plan - [Investment Options](https://castlerockpep.com/investments) - [Pricing](https://castlerockpep.com/pricing-new) - [Plan Design Choices](https://castlerockpep.com/plandesigns) - [Who We Serve](https://castlerockpep.com/who-we-serve) Show submenu for Who We Serve - [Colorado Businesses](https://castlerockpep.com/who-we-serve/colorado-businesses) - [Women-Owned Businesses](https://castlerockpep.com/who-we-serve/women-owned-businesses) - [Fiduciary Tool Belt](https://castlerockpep.com/-fiduciary-tool-belt) Show submenu for Fiduciary Tool Belt - [ERISA Plan Governance](https://castlerockpep.com/erisa-plan-governance) - [ERISA Fiduciary Training](https://castlerockpep.com/fiduciary-training) - [Regulators and Audits](https://castlerockpep.com/regulators-and-audits) Open main navigation Close main navigation - [Home](https://castlerockpep.com/) - [About Us](https://castlerockpep.com/about) Show submenu for About Us - [Community Page](https://castlerockpep.com/community) - [Blog](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom) - [Contact Us](https://castlerockpep.com/contact-us) - [Pooled Employer Plan](https://castlerockpep.com/pooled-employer-plan-1) Show submenu for Pooled Employer Plan - [Investment Options](https://castlerockpep.com/investments) - [Pricing](https://castlerockpep.com/pricing-new) - [Plan Design Choices](https://castlerockpep.com/plandesigns) - [Who We Serve](https://castlerockpep.com/who-we-serve) Show submenu for Who We Serve - [Colorado Businesses](https://castlerockpep.com/who-we-serve/colorado-businesses) - [Women-Owned Businesses](https://castlerockpep.com/who-we-serve/women-owned-businesses) - [Fiduciary Tool Belt](https://castlerockpep.com/-fiduciary-tool-belt) Show submenu for Fiduciary Tool Belt - [ERISA Plan Governance](https://castlerockpep.com/erisa-plan-governance) - [ERISA Fiduciary Training](https://castlerockpep.com/fiduciary-training) - [Regulators and Audits](https://castlerockpep.com/regulators-and-audits) - [Join the PEP](https://castlerockpep.com/join-castle-rock-pep) [Join the PEP](https://castlerockpep.com/join-castle-rock-pep) Apr 15, 2026, 7:34:05 PM # A Community of Experts: Our Partners in Success [Michele Suriano](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/author/michele-suriano) Share: [facebook-f icon](http://www.facebook.com/share.php?u=https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/a-community-of-experts-our-partners-in-success) [linkedin-in icon](http://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/a-community-of-experts-our-partners-in-success) [Twitter icon](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/a-community-of-experts-our-partners-in-success) [pinterest-p icon](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/link/?url=https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/a-community-of-experts-our-partners-in-success) [envelope icon](mailto:?body=https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/a-community-of-experts-our-partners-in-success) ![\[HERO\] A Community of Experts: Our Partners in Success](https://cdn.marblism.com/ua2z-XykQ90.webp) If there is one thing I've learned over the last twenty years in the retirement industry, it's that no firm is an island. While we take a lot of pride in the personalized service and the "human touch" we provide at Castle Rock PEP, the reality is that providing a world-class retirement plan requires a literal village of experts. Running a retirement plan: especially a Pooled Employer Plan (PEP): is a complex choreography of technology, law, investment science, and administration. To do it right, you have to surround yourself with people who are not just "good" at what they do, but are the absolute best in their respective fields. This post is dedicated to the partners who make our work possible. These are the recordkeepers, the investment managers, the legal guardians, and auditors who stand shoulder-to-shoulder with us to ensure that our clients: and their employees: have the best possible shot at a secure future. ## The Engine Room: Our Recordkeeping and TPA Partners In the world of 401(k)s, the recordkeeper is the engine room. They handle the complex task of tracking every penny, processing contributions, managing the website portals, and ensuring that the data flows correctly between the employer and the plan. We are incredibly selective about who we work with because if the recordkeeping isn't seamless, nothing else matters. We've built deep, trusting relationships with some of the finest in the business. **Ben Englehart at Voya** has been a stalwart partner for us. Voya brings a level of scale and participant-focused technology that is hard to beat, and Ben's commitment to making sure things run smoothly for our clients is second to none. **Josh Haynes at Empower** represents a powerhouse in the retirement space. With their massive presence and innovative tools, Empower helps us bring "big company" benefits to businesses of all sizes. **John Slavic at Slavic401k** brings a very specialized expertise to the table. Slavic401k has long been a leader in the world of multiple employer arrangements, and as we moved into the PEP model, John's insights into plan design and specialized administration have been invaluable. ![Mature man in black suit representing a legacy of service and industry leadership.](https://cdn.marblism.com/VYn2Zlkel2i.jpg) ## The Fuel: Our Investment Partners A retirement plan is only as good as the investments inside it. My philosophy has always been rooted in evidence-based investing: avoiding the "flavor of the week" and focusing on what actually drives long-term wealth. To execute that vision, we partner with investment firms that share our commitment to discipline and transparency. **Chris Anderson at Dimensional Fund Advisors (DFA)** is a key part of our investment story. DFA is world-renowned for their academic approach to the markets. Working with Chris allows us to offer our clients investment strategies based on decades of financial science rather than guesswork. **Jay Parano at American Funds (Capital Group)** brings a legacy of active management that is focused on the long term. Their "Capital System" aligns perfectly with our goal of providing steady, reliable growth opportunities for plan participants. **Jessen Fahey at Cohen & Steers** provides us with access to one of the most respected names in real estate investing. Cohen & Steer's breadth of options and institutional-grade research help us ensure that our plan's investment option is world-class. These partners aren't just names on a fund sheet; they are resources we tap into regularly to ensure the fiduciary health of the plans we manage. ![Middle-aged man in suit with glasses representing investment partner expertise.](https://cdn.marblism.com/dCRu-M63XSG.jpg) ## The Shield: Our ERISA Guardians ![Smiling woman in blue blazer representing ERISA guardians and compliance support.](https://cdn.marblism.com/lctkht6B9nO.jpg) Retirement planning is governed by a complex web of federal laws under ERISA (the Employee Retirement Income Security Act). To stay ahead of the curve and ensure our clients are always protected, we rely on a "brain trust" of legal and compliance experts. I call them our ERISA Guardians. We work closely with some of the sharpest legal minds in the industry, including **Ed Frado, Sarah Bhagwandin, and Doll Lank.** Whether it's navigating new SECURE Act regulations, ensuring our PEP documents are airtight, or providing guidance on complex fiduciary questions, these individuals provide the legal backbone that allows us to operate with confidence. In an era where regulations are constantly shifting, having this level of expertise on speed-dial is what allows our clients to sleep at night. They turn "compliance" from a burden into a strategic advantage. ## A Legacy of Service: The WP&BC Denver Board (2007–2013) My commitment to this "community of experts" isn't just professional: it's personal. Early in my career, I realized that if I wanted to provide the best service to my clients, I needed to be deeply involved in the industry conversations that shape the rules we live by. From **2007 to 2013**, I had the honor of serving on the **Western Pension & Benefits Council (WP&BC) Denver Chapter Board.** The WP&BC is a premier organization for benefit professionals, and those years on the board were formative. It was a time of significant change in the retirement landscape, and being at the table with other experts: attorneys, actuaries, and consultants: sharpened my understanding of the "why" behind the regulations. It reinforced the idea that we are all part of a larger ecosystem dedicated to one goal: helping Americans retire with dignity. That tenure taught me that "expertise" isn't a destination; it's a constant pursuit. It's about staying curious, staying involved, and always looking for ways to improve the system for the people who matter most: the plan participants. ## The Human Heart of the Network At the end of the day, all the technology and legal frameworks in the world are just tools. What makes this community work is the human relationships behind them. When I call John, Jessen, or Doll, it's not just a transaction. It's a conversation between partners who have spent years working together to solve problems. That trust is what allows us to move quickly when a client has a unique need or when the law changes overnight. We are incredibly grateful for the "village" that supports Castle Rock PEP. To our partners: thank you for your excellence, your integrity, and your shared commitment to our clients. And to our clients: know that when you work with us, you have a whole community of experts standing behind you, dedicated to your success. ## A 20-Year Tribute to the Community Behind Castle Rock As part of this milestone, we put together a short appreciation video to recognize the many experts, partners, clients, and friends who have helped shape the Castle Rock story over the last two decades. It's a simple thank-you, but it comes from the heart. Hint: The dedication to Industry Partners starts at 23:20.   [Retirement Plans](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/tag/retirement-plans), [Compliance](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/tag/compliance) ## Related posts [![](https://cdn.marblism.com/vlsBJblKXdJ.webp)](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/the-heart-of-the-partnership-why-we-chose-slavic401k) [Pooled Employer Plan](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/tag/pooled-employer-plan), [Insider](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/tag/insider), [Castle Rock PEP](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/tag/castle-rock-pep), [CFO Leadership](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/tag/cfo-leadership), [Retirement Plans](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/tag/retirement-plans), [Compliance](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/tag/compliance) ## [The Heart of the Partnership: Why We Chose Slavic401k](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/the-heart-of-the-partnership-why-we-chose-slavic401k) [Michele Suriano](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/author/michele-suriano) Jan 30, 2026, 3:00:42 PM In the world of retirement planning, we talk a lot about numbers. Contribution limits. Investment... [Read more](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/the-heart-of-the-partnership-why-we-chose-slavic401k) [![The 2026 Roadmap](https://cdn.marblism.com/21xBnSOXvMi.webp)](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/the-2026-roadmap-how-were-reinventing-the-401k-experience) [Pooled Employer Plan](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/tag/pooled-employer-plan), [Castle Rock PEP](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/tag/castle-rock-pep), [Retirement Plans](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/tag/retirement-plans), [Women Business Owners](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/tag/women-business-owners) ## [The 2026 Roadmap: How We're Reinventing the 401(k) Experience](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/the-2026-roadmap-how-were-reinventing-the-401k-experience) [Michele Suriano](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/author/michele-suriano) Feb 5, 2026, 2:23:59 PM The retirement industry is moving fast, and we're moving faster. At Castle Rock PEP, powered by our... [Read more](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/the-2026-roadmap-how-were-reinventing-the-401k-experience) [![Happy employees in a bright sunny office](https://cdn.marblism.com/O2p0XYOZBIU.webp)](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/the-wework-of-401k-how-castle-rock-pep-builds-community-and-delivers-big-for-employees) [Pooled Employer Plan](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/tag/pooled-employer-plan), [Insider](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/tag/insider), [Castle Rock PEP](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/tag/castle-rock-pep), [CFO Leadership](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/tag/cfo-leadership), [Retirement Plans](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/tag/retirement-plans), [Compliance](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/tag/compliance), [Women Business Owners](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/tag/women-business-owners) ## [The WeWork of 401(k): How Castle Rock PEP Builds Community and Delivers Big for Employees](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/the-wework-of-401k-how-castle-rock-pep-builds-community-and-delivers-big-for-employees) [Michele Suriano](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/author/michele-suriano) Oct 10, 2025, 3:44:38 PM Remember when WeWork revolutionized the workplace by turning boring office buildings into vibrant... [Read more](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom/the-wework-of-401k-how-castle-rock-pep-builds-community-and-delivers-big-for-employees) [facebook-f icon](https://www.facebook.com/CastleRockInvestment/) [Follow us on LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/castle-rock-investment-company/) [Follow us on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/castlerockpep/) [Follow us on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@CastleRockPEP) --- - [Home](https://castlerockpep.com) - [About Us](https://castlerockpep.com/about) - [Community Page](https://castlerockpep.com/community) - [Blog](https://castlerockpep.com/water-cooler-wisdom) - [Contact Us](https://castlerockpep.com/contact-us) - [Pooled Employer Plan](https://castlerockpep.com/pooled-employer-plan-1) - [Investment Options](https://castlerockpep.com/investments) - [Pricing](https://castlerockpep.com/pricing-new) - [Plan Design Choices](https://castlerockpep.com/plandesigns) - [Who We Serve](https://castlerockpep.com/who-we-serve) - [Colorado Businesses](https://castlerockpep.com/who-we-serve/colorado-businesses) - [Women-Owned Businesses](https://castlerockpep.com/who-we-serve/women-owned-businesses) - [Fiduciary Tool Belt](https://castlerockpep.com/-fiduciary-tool-belt) - [ERISA Plan Governance](https://castlerockpep.com/erisa-plan-governance) - [ERISA Fiduciary Training](https://castlerockpep.com/fiduciary-training) - [Regulators and Audits](https://castlerockpep.com/regulators-and-audits) Copyright © 2026, Castle Rock Investment Company 115 Wilcox Street, Suite 220, Castle Rock, CO 80104 720.608.5894 Castle Rock Investment Company is registered as an Investment Adviser in the State of Colorado, in addition to any other states requiring registration when otherwise not exempt. 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