Ernest P. Carrera
Wealth Advisor
Certified Estate Planner ®
*Founder of Carrera Financial, Ernie is a specialist in the financial planning industry since 1992; with 30 years’ experience. Ernie specializes in implementing the investment management process to identify and obtain his clients’ needs and goals.
He began his career with MetLife in 1992, where he displayed exemplary passion and integrity in his client relationships. As a representative for MetLife. Although enjoying his career, Ernie’s passion for helping clients drove him to obtain additional credentials as a Financial Advisor in Training for Prudential Securities. Following his tenure at the 5th largest wire house, Ernie accepted an offer to join Colonial Bank as a Financial Advisor. Here he became the Wealth Advisor for Colonial Bank’s private client group where her worked exclusively with the high net worth clients.
In 2009, Ernie pursued independence and created his own wealth management firm Carrera Financial, where he has been able to provide tailored direction to clients as individuals, all while being backed by the nation’s largest broker dealer: LPL Financial***. He acquired a winning relationship with NorthStar bank in 2009 and created NorthStar Wealth Service where he formerly served as program director and Wealth Advisor.
In addition to his career in wealth management, Ernie is involved in many local charities and presently serves on the Corporate Board of Directors for the Boys and Girls Club of Tampa Bay. He also acted as the Mayoral Appointed Trustee for the City of Tampa General Pension Fund and served as a Chairman of the Board.
“My goal is to become a financial pilot for my clients by helping them identify and pursue their financial destination, all while attempting to avoid financial turbulence.”
Licenses and Qualifications
FINRA Series 6, 7, and 63 Registrations are held through LPL Financial
FINRA Series 65 Registration is held with IHT Wealth Management
Life, Health, and Variable Annuity licensed
Airline Transport Pilot
***As reported by Financial Planning magazine, June 1996-2025, based on total revenue.
Angela Rix
Marketing and Business Development
Marketing and Business Development Specialist, Angela is a fifth generation Tampa native with a enthusiasm for creativity and design. Angela studied Marketing and Sales at the University of South Florida's Muma College of Business and has been a part of the Carrera Financial team since 2022.
In addition to marketing, Angela has a passion to give back to the West Tampa Community.
Angela is a proud to affiliate herself with local organizations including: The Boys and Girls Club of Tampa Bay, and St. Lawrence Parish and School - as well as The West Tampa Chamber of Commerce where she sits on the Board of Directors after having previously served as Vice President (2025-2026.)
“My goal is to develop and maintain genuine, personable relationships with clients that allow them feel at home in our family office.”
Qualifications:
University of South Florida: Muma College of Business
Associate in Arts, Business Finance 2019
Bachelor of Science, Marketing and Sales 2022
Caleb Cetina
Wealth Consultant
Caleb, a Florida native, hales from Fort Myers where he attended Florida Gulf Coast University - Wings Up! After earning his Associates, Caleb moved to Tampa where he studied Finance at The University of South Florida's Muma College of Business.
He has been heavily involved in community groups both within Fort Myers and Tampa; including working for The Southwest Florida Enterprise Center and serving as Chair for the City of Fort Myers Youth Advisory Board. Additionally, Caleb is a member of the South Tampa Chamber of Commerce and the West Tampa Chamber of Commerce.
Immediately after high school, Caleb began to pursue his career in finance with Evolution Retirement Services & Wealth Management. In 2025, he joined the Carrera Financial team with his Life, Health, and Variable Annuity license and Series 65. Caleb has since grown his experience and presently holds a FINRA Series 7, and 63 Registrations through LPL Financial.
"My goal is to help clients achieve long-term financial security and specific life goals through tailored investment strategies, comprehensive planning, and risk management."
Licenses and Qualifications
FINRA Series 7, and 63 Registrations are held through LPL Financial
FINRA Series 65 Registration is held with IHT Wealth Management
Life, Health, and Variable Annuity licensed
Chief Executive Pawficer
CEP, Kitto Kat, has been apart of the Carrera Financial Family since 2012. He shows exemplary client support and dedicates his off time to maintaining the lizard population in the local community.
"Meow."
Qualifications:
Looks just like a black panther.
Can jump 5 times his height.