A Framework for Real-World Excellence

The FPA Competency Model is a practical research-informed guide that defines the behavioral skills essential to success in financial planning. It complements technical knowledge by focusing on how professionals communicate, lead, build trust, and advance the profession. Whether you're just starting out or looking to mentor others, this model gives you the tools to grow intentionally and make a greater impact.

We're excited to announce that the 2026 FPA Puget Sound Symposium is set for Thursday, April 16, 2026! We’ll be returning to the stunning Seattle Summit Convention Center for this highly anticipated event—the largest gathering of financial planning professionals in the region. Join us for a day designed to inspire, educate, and bring our community together.

🎤 Keynote Speakers You Won’t Want to Miss

• Ed Slott, CPA – America’s IRA Expert and one of the most trusted voices in tax and retirement planning. He’ll deliver timely strategies and guidance to help you better serve your clients and prepare for the evolving financial landscape.
• Carl Richards – Author and creator of The Sketch Guy. Known for his ability to simplify complex financial concepts, Carl will challenge and inspire you with fresh perspectives on communication, client engagement, and the human side of financial planning.

What to Expect

Beyond our keynote sessions, the Symposium will feature a full day of engaging breakout sessions led by top industry professionals, covering timely topics across financial planning, investment strategies, tax, practice management, and more. You’ll walk away with actionable ideas you can immediately apply to your practice.

Networking Opportunities

Connect with peers, thought leaders, and solution providers throughout the day. From dedicated networking breaks to conversations in the exhibit hall, you’ll have ample opportunities to share ideas, build relationships, and expand your professional community.

📅 Register by April 8

Mark your calendar now for a day of learning, growth, and connection. Early-Bird registration discounts and group discounts now available!

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FPA GATHER 2026, formerly FPA NexGen Gathering, brings the energy of connection to the next generation of f inancial planners. To be held in Dallas, TX, from August 18-20, this is where early-career planners and career changers come together to learn, share, and feel like they belong. From the moment you arrive, everything is designed to help you settle in, lean in, and start building relationships that last well beyond the event. Register now and save with early bird pricing—the lowest possible registration available!

Registration is now open for the FPA Spring Residency 2026 program taking place June 12–17, at the Hyatt Regency Aurora-Denver Conference Center in Aurora, Colorado. This highly acclaimed, experiential learning program immerses new and soon-to-be CFP® professionals in the real-world practice of financial planning through casebased role-playing, individualized mentorship, and peer collaboration. Plus, you can earn 28 CFP® continuing education credits or three months of CFP Board experience toward your certification requirement. Sign up today!

Welcome Our Newest FPA Puget Sound Members

We are proud to announce and warmly welcome our newest members to the FPA Puget Sound community! Your decision to join us marks the beginning of an exciting journey together, filled with opportunities for networking, professional development, and collaboration. As part of our organization, you will have access to a wealth of resources, events, and a supportive community of financial planning professionals. We encourage you to get involved, participate in our upcoming events, and connect with fellow members. Together, we can continue to advance the financial planning profession and make a positive impact in our community. Welcome!

Danielle Gauger

Zachary Glass

Ryan Gleeson, CFP®, AAMS®, CRPC® I Edward Jones

Jenna Harris

Natalie Mackey I Badgley Phelps Wealth Managers

Celebrating Member Milestones

At FPA of Puget Sound we are proud to celebrate the dedication and commitment of our members as they reach significant membership milestones. Your continued involvement strengthens our community, inspires others, and contributes to the ongoing success of our profession. Thank you for your invaluable contributions, and here's to many more years of growth and success together!

Matt Reiner of Capital Investment Advisors and The FutureProof Advisor, our partner in the FPAi Authority, breaks from the usual three-headline format in his monthly AI in Finance video series to focus entirely on the year ahead. What will matter in wealth management as AI moves from novelty to infrastructure? Matt shares six predictions that outline the real forces shaping how wealth managers will work, compete, and deliver value in the next era of AI. Check it out!

In the latest from Matt Reiner, the FPAi Authority, you can now view a demo of Surfn AI, a platform that transforms static landing pages and content into dynamic, conversational experiences. Matt dives into how Surfn can be used to qualify leads, support client education, and create a more personalized experience - without forcing an all-or-nothing decision like "schedule now or leave". Check it out!