Protected: 2026 Operational Foundations with AIC and AAS
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About this Program
This beginner virtual school, Operational Foundations with AIC and AAS, offers a level one class designed to provide a basic overview of key processes, resources and support systems available through Ameritas Investment Company, LLC (AIC) and Ameritas Advisory Services, LLC (AAS). This introductory program combines live online instruction with self-directed exercises and assignments, ensuring an interactive and accessible learning experience. Each session builds on the previous one, encouraging engagement and equipping you with practical knowledge you can begin applying right away in your role
Program Requirements
Intersession Work (homework)
Throughout the course of the virtual Operational Foundations with AIC and AAS, you will be asked to complete intersession work in addition to participating in live sessions. Assignments may include blog readings, articles, or coursework available through edu.ameritas.com. Engaging with these materials thoughtfully and being prepared to discuss new concepts is essential for a meaningful learning experience.
Attendance Policy
Regular attendance at all online sessions is required. Since teamwork and group interaction are integral elements of the course, any participant’s absence may affect the learning environment for the entire group. If you anticipate being unable to attend a session for any reason, it is your responsibility to promptly notify the virtual Operational Foundations with AIC and AAS coordinator, who will help determine appropriate next steps. Please note that missing any session, regardless of the reason, may result in the forfeiture of your spot in the class. However, the $99.00 registration fee will be fully reimbursed to anyone who completes at least five out of the six scheduled sessions.
Note: The information above applies to the entire school and should be reviewed by all participants before reviewing the agenda for specific sessions.
What You Need to Do Before the First Class
PREPARATION CHECKLIST AND PROGRAM SUCCESS
☐ Mark your calendar: Reserve the scheduled dates and times for the virtual Operational Foundations with AIC and AAS in your planner or calendar.
☐ We use the Microsoft Teams application for this school. If you do not typically use this software, please download the app and set up an account in advance to avoid any login issues on the first day of school.
☐ Check your technology: Make sure you have a reliable high-speed Internet connection and a functioning computer available for all sessions.
☐ Optimize your audio setup: For the best sound quality, use a separate telephone line (not your computer’s audio) for class participation. Avoid speakerphones and use a headset with a microphone.
☐ Complete pre-work: Read all assigned pre-course materials and print both the workbook and the resource guide for easy access.
☐ Review the course outline: Familiarize yourself with the session topics and start preparing any questions you’d like to discuss during each class.
☐ Have your workbook ready—either printed out or as a digital copy you can easily reference during the session.
☐ Review the glossary of common terms. These will appear often throughout the course and knowing them will help you engage more confidently and effectively.
☐ Ensure you can access the Producer Workbench. If you run into any issues, consult the guidance provided document or reach out to our support team for help.
Day 1: Feb. 10, 2026, 11:00 a.m. ET – 1:00 p.m. ET
Welcome and Introductions – 20 minutes
Facilitators: Brent Bahl, Lead Sales Training and Education Specialist
This session will kick off our time together with introductions from each facilitator and an overview of what to expect during the school. We’ll walk through the daily structure, session topics and classroom tools to help you feel confident and ready. Get settled, get connected and get excited for the days ahead.
Who Are You and What Do You Do? – 30 minutes (TBD by Number of Attendees)
Facilitators: YOU.
Brent Bahl, Lead Sales Training and Education Specialist
This is your chance to tell us about yourself and your role within your practice. Share a bit about your background, what you do day-to-day and what you’re hoping to gain from this school.
Producer Workbench Basics – 30 minutes
Facilitators: Ashley McWilliams, Supervisor AIC and AAS Customer Service
This session provides an overview of the key areas of Producer Workbench on which you will rely for day-to-day business
Break
Introduction to Docupace – 30 minutes
Facilitator: Becky Haase, Manager Transition and Onboarding
This session will provide a foundational walkthrough of Docupace, focusing on the core tools and tasks you will use most often. You will learn how to navigate the system, submit and track paperwork and manage everyday workflows to support your agency more effectively.
Daily Wrap-Up and Next Steps – 5 minutes
Facilitator: Brent Bahl, Lead Sales Training and Education Specialist
Brief review of key takeaways, a look at what’s coming next and any homework. Please complete a short three question survey before leaving for the day.
Day 2: Feb. 12, 2026, 11:00 a.m. ET – 1:00 p.m. ET
Recap and Homework Review – 15 minutes
Facilitator: Brent Bahl, Lead Sales Training and Education Specialist
Start the day with a quick review of key takeaways from the previous session, answers to any outstanding questions and a discussion of homework assignments.
Compliance – 25 minutes
Facilitator: Linda Broers
Submitting New Business – 75 minutes
Facilitator: Linda York, Sr. Customer Service Specialist
Becky Haase, Manager Transition and Onboarding
This session will focus on the end-to-end process of submitting new business to AIC and AAS using the Docupace platform. Gain practical insights as you discover what happens after you submit new business and explore the complete workflow process. You will also learn valuable strategies to help you steer clear of Not In Good Order (NIGO) items. Designed to empower you with confidence and knowledge, this session will help make your submission process smoother and more efficient.
Daily Wrap-Up and Next Steps – 5 minutes
Facilitator: Brent Bahl, Lead Sales Training and Education Specialist
Brief review of key takeaways, a look at what’s coming next and any homework. Please complete a short three question survey before leaving for the day.
Day 3: Feb. 17, 2026, 11:00 a.m. ET – 1:00 p.m. ET
Recap and Homework Review – 15 minutes
Facilitator: Brent Bahl, Lead Sales Training and Education Specialist
Start the day with a quick review of key takeaways from the previous session, answers to any outstanding questions and a discussion of homework assignments.
Wealthscape Overview and Money Movement Request – 60 minutes
Facilitators: Ashley McWilliams, Supervisor AIC and AAS Customer Service
This session will introduce Wealthscape, a comprehensive platform that offers secure access to client account information, robust trading tools, and essential operational resources designed to simplify account management and enhance daily efficiency in the financial services industry.
In addition, the session will cover the essentials of money movement, focusing on different types of requests such as cashiering transactions and account transfers. You will learn how to initiate and submit these requests online, track their status, and ensure all required documentation is in place.
Daily Wrap-Up and Next Steps – 5 minutes
Facilitator: Brent Bahl, Lead Sales Training and Education Specialist
Brief review of key takeaways, a look at what’s coming next and any homework. Please complete a short three question survey before leaving for the day.
Day 4: Feb. 19, 2026, 11:00 a.m. ET – 1:00 p.m. ET
Recap and Homework Review – 15 minutes
Facilitator: Brent Bahl, Lead Sales Training and Education Specialist
Start the day with a quick review of key takeaways from the previous session, answers to any outstanding questions and a discussion of homework assignments.
Deeper Dive Wealthscape and Docupace Maintenance – 75 minutes
Facilitator: Ashley McWilliams, Supervisor AIC and AAS Customer Service
Linda York, Sr. Customer Service Specialist
This session provides a deeper dive into Wealthscape and Docupace maintenance essentials. We will cover the Wealthscape basics, platform navigation, reports and alerts, Wealthscape Investor, eDelivery settings and key self-service tools. You will also learn how to update client profiles, document financial updates and manage Beneficiaries and IRAs. The session will close with a guided walkthrough of Docupace maintenance tasks and initiating leads in Docupace.
Trading – 15 minutes
Facilitator: Kevin Malay
Daily Wrap-Up and Next Steps – 5 minutes
Facilitator: Brent Bahl, Lead Sales Training and Education Specialist
Brief review of key takeaways, a look at what’s coming next, and any homework. Please complete a short three question survey before leaving for the day.
Day 5: Feb. 24, 2026, 11:00 a.m. ET – 1:00 p.m. ET
Recap and Homework Review – 15 minutes
Facilitator: Brent Bahl, Lead Sales Training and Education Specialist
Start the day with a quick review of key takeaways from the previous session, answers to any outstanding questions and a discussion of homework assignments.
Using the Orion Platform – 30 minutes
Facilitator: Ann Dohmen, Lead Bus Systems Specialist
Discover the full range of features and integrations offered by the Orion platform, along with practical tips to maximize your experience with this powerful technology.
Wealth Management – 15 minutes
Facilitators: Becky and Ashley
Gain valuable insights from the wealth management team as they share details about the services they provide and introduce you to their team’s expertise and areas of support.
Break
Peer Panel: Best Practices to Start Your Day – 50 minutes
Facilitator: Tiffany Harrison, Stacy Brasher, Jen Elliot
Join a panel of peers as they share proven strategies and best practices to kickstart your day effectively. Learn practical tips tailored to agency life that help boost productivity, stay organized, and set a positive tone for success.
Daily Wrap-Up and Next Steps – 5 minutes
Facilitator: Brent Bahl, Lead Sales Training and Education Specialist
Brief review of key takeaways, a look at what’s coming next, and any homework. Please complete a short three question survey before leaving for the day.
Day 6: Feb. 26, 2026, 11:00 a.m. ET – 1:00 p.m. ET
Interacting with AIC and AAS Customer Service and Supervision – 30 minutes
Facilitator: Ashley McWilliams, Supervisor, Account and Client Management
This session will guide you through accessing client information, interacting effectively with the AIC and AAS customer service teams, and understanding which updates can be made online versus those requiring additional documentation. We will also take an in-depth look at how to locate key AIC and AAS resources on Producer Workbench. When to contact the supervision team
Communications- 15 minutes
Facilitator: Jaclyn Bautista, Director, AIC and AAS Service and Operations
Learn about the communications you’ll receive from AIC and AAS and find out where to access them on Producer Workbench.
Intro to Ameritas.EDU.com – 30 minutes
Facilitator: Jennifer Osterman, Lead Sales Training and Education Specialist, Practice Management and Development
Learn at your own pace—your courses, your schedule. Take control of your development with our learning management system, Ameritas EDU. In this session, we’ll explore the platform and demonstrate just how simple it is to enroll in courses and navigate your learning experience.
Development for the Future – 5 minutes
Facilitators: Beth Goldsmith, 2VP, Practice Management and Development
Discover your next steps—explore the opportunities and resources available to support your continued learning journey.
Closing: What’s Next and Takeaways – 15 minutes
Facilitators: Brent Bahl, Lead Sales Training and Education Specialist
As we conclude, take a moment to reflect on your biggest takeaway and identify one practical step you’ll put into action immediately. We will explore how to make the most of your resource guide, answer your questions and set the path for continued growth and success beyond this school.
