MassMutual: Helping Clients Make Informed Financial Decisions

Shelly Peterson
13 minutes ago
2 min read

Listen to the Podcast Here: Mass Mutual

For Hugo Hietapelto, Northeastern Minnesota has always felt like home.

Growing up, Hugo spent his summers in Duluth while his father worked as an ore boat captain on Lake Superior. Trained as an engineer, Hugo began his career working on the space shuttle program, an experience that shaped his analytical mindset and appreciation for precision.

Over time, that same skill set led him to a new mission: helping individuals and families make informed, confident financial decisions.

Today, Hugo Hietapelto is a Financial Advisor with MassMutual and a Florida transplant who chose to return to the Northland for its quality of life and strong sense of community.

“I have two children and a dog. We mountain bike, wanted strong educational opportunities for our kids, and a slower pace of life,” shared Hietapelto. “This area checked all the boxes.”

In addition to serving clients, Hugo also teaches financial planning at the University of Minnesota Duluth, reinforcing his passion for education and empowering others through knowledge.

A Trusted Local Financial Planning Team

Hugo established his relationship with MassMutual in 2008. A few years ago, he and his partner, Joe Jenkins—also a Financial Advisor—opened a local office in downtown Cloquet at 815 Cloquet Avenue, bringing comprehensive financial planning services closer to the community.

Together, the MassMutual Cloquet team offers a full suite of services, including:

Estate planning
Tax planning strategies
Wealth management
Retirement income planning

“People want a relationship with a financial planner they know, like, and trust,” said Hietapelto. “I focus on breaking down complex financial terms so they’re easier to understand. We work with clients to define their goals, turn those goals into action, and clearly map out how to get there.”

Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, Hugo and Joe provide clients with options—allowing them to make informed decisions that align with their personal goals and values.

Built on Relationships and Flexibility

The MassMutual Cloquet office has grown largely through referrals, a testament to the trust they’ve built within the community. By leveraging technology such as DocuSign and virtual meetings, the team also offers flexibility and convenience, ensuring timely support for clients, whether they prefer in-person or remote meetings.

If you’re looking for personalized financial guidance backed by experience, education, and a relationship-driven approach, the MassMutual team in Cloquet is ready to help.