LPL Financial said it has signed on Kern Schools Federal Credit Union to its institution servicesplatform.

The $1.2 billion credit union in Bakersfield, Calif., will haveaccess to LPL Financial's division that provides third-partybrokerage, wealth management and trust services to the investment programsof banks and credit unions nationwide, the company said.

Kern Schools FCU's wealth management program overseesapproximately $267 million in assets, has four financial advisers,and offers wealth management products and solutions, according toLPL Financial.

“When it came time for a routine review of our broker-dealerrelationship, we decided to undertake a serious investigation ofwhat was offered throughout the industry and we were tremendouslyimpressed with LPL Financial,” said Larry Braley, vice president ofwealth management at Kern Schools FCU.

In addition to LPL Financial's technology platform and in-houseinsurance solutions, Braley said the credit union was alsoattracted to the company's “extensive and well-integratedretirement planning capabilities.”

“Kern Schools has a history of providing its members withoutstanding service, and LPL Financial Institution Services ispleased to help them grow their business and bring it to a newlevel of achievement,” said Craig Kamis, senior vice president ofbusiness development and adviser recruiting at LPL FinancialInstitution Services.

With primary offices in Boston, Charlotte, N.C., and San Diego,LPL Financial said it is considered to be the nation's largestindependent broker-dealer. It also serves as a leading registeredinvestment advisory custodian and is a wholly owned subsidiary ofLPL Financial Holdings Inc.

In total, LPL Financial said it serves more than 700 banks andcredit unions with brokerage, trust and wealth managementservices.