Matt Hammaker is a Financial Planning Associate at Wharf Financial and the newest member of the team. His path into financial advising is anything but traditional — shaped by military service, leadership, academic excellence, and a deep commitment to helping others build long‑term success. Matt has always had a strong interest in finance, and his analytical, detail‑oriented nature made the transition into the industry a natural fit. The combination of disciplined decision‑making, structured problem‑solving, and people‑focused leadership he developed throughout his career uniquely prepared him for the demands of financial planning.
Born and raised in Roswell, Georgia, Matt enlisted in the United States Marine Corps infantry immediately after high school. He served as a mortarman with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines at Camp Pendleton, deploying twice — first with the 11th MEU to the Middle East and later with the 31st MEU throughout the Asia‑Pacific region. During his service, he attended Advanced Infantry School and became a section leader, responsible for 11 Marines and one Navy Corpsman. His leadership earned him the prestigious Gung‑Ho Award, a peer‑voted honor recognizing outstanding small‑unit leadership and the Marine others would most want beside them in any scenario.
After completing his military service, Matt returned to Georgia and earned his Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Kennesaw State University, where he also played Division I rugby. He then attended graduate school at Wingate University, earning his Doctorate in Physical Therapy and graduating as valedictorian. Even during his academic and clinical career, Matt found himself drawn to financial markets, personal finance, and long‑term planning. That passion, combined with his precision, discipline, and ability to break down complex information, ultimately led him to pursue financial advising and wealth management — a field that allows him to build meaningful relationships while helping people create stability for their future.
Outside the office, Matt enjoys anything outdoors — from hiking to traveling and experiencing new places. He also has a deep love for working with dogs. He has a rescue mix named Nala and volunteers with dog‑related organizations whenever possible. Matt is a huge sports fan — a die‑hard Atlanta Braves and Georgia Bulldogs supporter — and he loves attending all kinds of sporting events. Since moving to the DMV area, he has also become an enthusiastic Washington Capitals fan. You’re also likely to see him around the DC area continuing his passion for sports by playing recreational leagues with friends.