Walt Sokira started managing “important money” in August of 1987 when the Dow-Jones Industrial Average was at 2,660, the S&P 500 Index at 329, and the NASDAQ Composite was at 451. Walt defines "important money" as the "money people give their lives´ energies to gain. It often represents hard work, fulfillment of dreams, and financial security." For over 36 years Walt has managed money for individuals, families, corporations, and philanthropic organizations.

Walt has worked for a large trust company, brokerage firms, and owned his own independent Registered Investment Advisory firm for 17 years. This cumulative experience has developed into principles and beliefs that are now shared daily as the managing partner of The AKW Group.

Walt earned his M.B.A. from Kent State University. He firmly believes that education is a life-long process. Walt has taught as a visiting professor at Case Western Reserve University and Kent State University. He has won numerous teaching awards and has educated over 10,000 students during his teaching tenure.