Alumnus establishes grant to help CU-Lock Haven students obtain industry licenses before graduation

Nick Subich, a 2017 Lock Haven graduate has never forgotten the impact his alma mater had on his life. Now, as the owner of YTS Wealth Management, he is committed to giving back to the institution that helped shape his future.

Subich's passion for assisting students stems from his own Lock Haven experience in which he received critical financial assistance that allowed him to continue his education. With his recent gift to the Lock Haven University Foundation (LHUF) to establish the Subich Securities Industry Exam Professional Experience Grant (PEG), Subich is excited to provide Commonwealth University-Lock Haven students with resources to acquire their finance industry licenses before graduating, thus, ensuring their access to expanded professional opportunities upon entering the workforce.

Originally from Johnstown, where he played high school football, despite financial constraints, Subich enrolled at The Haven because of its affordability and the vision of then head football coach, John Allen. Initially a criminal justice major, he switched to business administration at his parents' recommendation to diversify his academic background. Shoulder injuries, and the offer of a full-ride scholarship eventually led him away from football and into Lock Haven's ROTC program during the spring semester of his freshman year.

By the time he was a senior, Subich was already earning over $60,000 annually. Hired as a human resources recruiter over 100 competing applicants while he was still a Lock Haven student, he quickly ascended to an administrative management position where he oversaw accounts payable, accounts receivable and IT management.

Throughout that time, mentors and supporters in the ROTC program also played a crucial role in his personal and professional development, equipping him with a wealth of discipline and leadership acumen. Upon graduating, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army National Guard and completed infantry training in Fort Benning, Georgia.

In 2018, just two months after completing infantry training, his retiring boss offered to sell him YTS Wealth Management, and he quickly seized the opportunity. Despite a challenging start, including a sub-500 credit score and six-figure debt, Subich's entrepreneurial spirit has proven that risk was worth the reward.

Under his leadership, YTS's revenue has soared from $300,000 in 2019 to a projected $13 million in 2024, with the company now managing over $1 billion in assets. During that span, he has grown the company from a three-person, 600 square-foot operation to more than 40 employees in nine locations across three states, including hiring 2023 Lock Haven graduate, Austin Barber, to be his executive assistant. Over the next five to 10 years, Subich intends to lead YTS to a multi-billion-dollar valuation-with at least $60 billion in assets managed and a minimum of $200 million in annual revenue.

"There were semesters in college where I came up short financially. Thanks to a $1,500 scholarship, I was able to stay in college," Subich said. "Someone helped me, and I know I would not be where I am today without it."

"I want to give back, and ensure that students have the resources and opportunities they need to succeed," he added. "It's an honor to be able to pay it forward, and help the next generation achieve their professional dreams."

The Subich Securities Industry Exam PEG will provide funds for juniors and seniors at CU-Lock Haven to take their Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) Exam and obtain their licenses in advance of graduating - making the transition from business student to wealth management professional easier, and helping graduates quickly gain access to increased earnings.

"Licensing exams can be a significant hurdle for many students and young professionals," Subich said. "By providing resources and encouragement to get these licenses while still in college, students can unlock unlimited earning potential upon receiving their degrees."

"There's not much that compares to the fulfillment of knowing that you've helped someone succeed," he added. "Helping students stay in college or finish college can have a lasting impact on you and the students."

To learn more about how you can establish a Professional Experience Grant at CU-Lock Haven, contact Ashley Koser, LHUF executive director, at 570-484-2298 or ashley.koser@lhufoundation.org.