About US

In the early 20th century, as the Pacific Northwest began grappling with the dangers of forest fires, Washington State built a network of fire lookout towers—solitary outposts perched atop rugged peaks, designed to offer a commanding view over the vast, untamed wilderness. These towers were the first line of defense: simple but vital structures that allowed rangers to spot the first wisp of smoke before it could become a raging wildfire. In the same way, a well-crafted financial plan gives you the perspective to see risks on the horizon—before they can threaten your retirement security.

The rangers who operated these towers often lived in complete isolation for weeks or months at a time. They learned to read the landscape, scan for subtle signs, and take swift action when something seemed amiss. One of these towers, the Desolation Peak Lookout in the North Cascades, became famous when author Jack Kerouac spent the summer of 1956 there. His reflections in Desolation Angels and The Dharma Bums captured the quiet watchfulness and sense of responsibility that defined the role. In financial planning, the same principles apply—patience, perspective, and the ability to separate minor distractions from actual danger.

In August 2020, Neil had the chance to hike to Desolation Peak. Standing in the same place Kerouac once did, he met the ranger who had returned to that mountaintop for more than a decade. The ranger told stories of storms, lightning, and spotting smoke on far ridges—moments when a quick, informed decision made all the difference. That conversation shows us the value of an experienced guide in finance. Just as a seasoned lookout knows when a slight flare can become a forest-wide blaze, a skilled advisor helps you anticipate and navigate challenges before they grow into real problems.

Today, most fire lookouts have been replaced by satellites, cameras, and technology, but a few—like Desolation Peak—still operate each summer. They stand as a reminder that the best protection is proactive, not reactive. In your retirement plan, that means identifying risks early—market volatility, unexpected expenses, inflation—and adjusting course before they have a lasting impact. Whether from a mountaintop or across a conference table, the goal is the same: keep watch, stay ahead, and protect what matters most.

Meet The Team

It’s an honor to hear your story.

After years of navigating traditional institutions, our founders, John Carruthers and Neil Fenning, realized their clients deserve more than premade, frozen strategies. They envisioned a firm where every plan is as carefully handled as the highest grade of Wagyu steak, A5—a symbol of excellence and precision. At A5 Financial, our mission is simple: empower you with a tailored, well-designed financial strategy that helps ease your worries and gives you confidence to focus on what truly matters.