Joel Bengds is a managing director for the Private Wealth division of Blue Trust and a senior private wealth advisor.

As managing director, Joel oversees the day-to-day operations, growth, and expansion of the office in Lynchburg, Virginia. In addition to his leadership role, Joel works with individuals, families, and businesses, using his objective perspective to help them make wise financial decisions to experience clarity and confidence and leave a lasting legacy. His goal is to help clients focus on the things that matter most to them. Joel and the team integrate financial planning, investment management, and trust services into financial plans tailored to their clients’ needs.

Prior to joining Blue Trust in 2026, Joel was a partner and investment manager at HSC Wealth Advisors for over 20 years. He is passionate about providing unbiased financial advice and helping clients achieve their goals. Joel obtained his CFP^® certification in 2012. 

Joel graduated from Liberty University with a BS degree and earned an MBA from Indiana Wesleyan University. Joel also completed the Executive Program in Financial Planning at the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business.

Joel has many passions, including his faith in God, quality time with his family, and various home and yard projects. Joel and his wife, Melissa, met in high school while living in Tucson, Arizona. They enjoy cooking and spending time with their kids and grandkids in Central Virginia.