Tate Hisey has always thrived where numbers meet grit. As a finance major at George Mason and a Division I wrestler, he's learned that the discipline required to succeed on the mat carries over into every aspect of life. Now, through an internship with Moment Innovations, Hisey is discovering how his passion for financial advising intersects with the same focus and resilience that define his athletic career.
At George Mason, the rising sophomore has found a balance between his academic ambitions and athletic goals, one that's shaping the kind of leader he hopes to become.
Hisey's interest in finance extends beyond spreadsheets and equations. He's drawn to the personal side of the profession, where helping people plan for their futures requires trust, communication and strong relationships.
"I am a finance major particularly focused on pursuing a career in financial advising or wealth management," Hisey said. "I enjoy working with numbers but am more drawn to the relationship side of financial advising, helping individuals make informed decisions, plan for the future, and meet their goals."
That passion led him to seek hands-on experience beyond the classroom. This summer, He's working as a Residential Construction and Market Research Intern with Moment Innovations, where he researches the adoption of energy codes, identifies builders who could benefit from the company's insulated framing product and assists with marketing initiatives.
The role complements his finance studies while exposing him to the broader business strategies that help organizations grow.
Through his work, Hisey is learning how to connect with clients, identify market opportunities and communicate effectively, both vital skills that align with his long-term goal of owning a business with his two older brothers, Trevor and Tyler.
For Hisey, the internship is about much more than adding experience to his résumé.
"I was attracted to this internship because of the opportunity to strengthen my research, communication and marketing skills while gaining hands-on experience in a professional environment," he said. "I also liked how the role allows me to contribute to real projects with a team and build a relationship with an important supporter of GMU wrestling, Mr. Frogale."
As he gains experience in market research and business development, Hisey sees direct connections to the future he hopes to build. Every project reinforces the importance of communication, entrepreneurship and identifying opportunities, skills he believes will be essential to achieving his long-term goals.
"My long-term goal is to own and operate a business with my two older brothers, possibly a financial advising firm," Hisey said. "In order to do that, I know it's important to understand how to market a business, identify opportunities and build strong relationships with clients."
Those values of discipline, growth and continuous improvement didn't begin in the workplace. Long before college or internships, wrestling helped shape both his character and work ethic.
A standout at Memorial High School in St. Mary's, Ohio, Hisey compiled an impressive 174-11 career record while winning two state individual championships.
"Wrestling has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, as I grew up watching my older brothers practice and compete and naturally followed in their footsteps," he said.
His older brothers both wrestled at Indiana Tech, and their influence helped lay the foundation for his own success. As a freshman at George Mason, Hisey started at 141 pounds, finishing with a 15-10 record while ranking third in the Mid-American Conference at his weight.
"Their influence helped shape the mindset I have in the sport and, of course, my skill, as they were always going out of their way to help me improve," he said.
The lessons he's learned as a student-athlete continue to translate directly to the workplace.
"Being a student-athlete has prepared me for this internship in many ways," Hisey said. "As a college wrestler, I have learned the values of discipline, time management and hard work. Balancing a demanding practice and competition schedule with my academics has taught me how to stay organized and manage my time effectively."
Those same habits continue to shape his approach as he prepares for his sophomore season. Whether in the classroom, the office or the wrestling room, Hisey believes success comes from consistently doing the little things well.
"My mindset preparing for this upcoming wrestling season is to keep stacking good days together," Hisey said. "I approach every practice with the goal of clearing my conscience, meaning I want to leave knowing I gave everything I had."
As he looks toward the future, Hisey remains committed to building something meaningful. Whether helping clients achieve their financial goals, launching a business alongside his brothers or contributing to the continued rise of George Mason wrestling, he is determined to make a lasting impact.
"I truly believe there are big things ahead of our program, and I'm excited to be a part of building that success."