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

The $1.2 billion credit union in Bakersfield, Calif., will have access to LPL Financial's division that provides third-party brokerage, wealth management and trust services to the investment programs of banks and credit unions nationwide, the company said.

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

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

In addition to LPL Financial's technology platform and in-house insurance solutions, Braley said the credit union was also attracted to the company's “extensive and well-integrated retirement planning capabilities.”

“Kern Schools has a history of providing its members with outstanding service, and LPL Financial Institution Services is pleased to help them grow their business and bring it to a new level of achievement,” said Craig Kamis, senior vice president of business development and adviser recruiting at LPL Financial Institution Services.

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

In total, LPL Financial said it serves more than 700 banks and credit unions with brokerage, trust and wealth management services.