Tom Knowlton, CFP®, MBA, CTFA

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My path to Knowlton Wealth Management and Prospera Capital Management has been shaped by a diverse career, a passion for helping others, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
 

I began my academic journey at Claremont McKenna College in Southern California, where I earned dual degrees in Economics and International Relations. My education then brought me back to my home state of Arizona to attend the Thunderbird School of Global Management, where I earned an MBA with an emphasis in International Finance. More importantly, Thunderbird is where I met my wife, Stephanie.
 

After graduate school, I began my career as a grain trader with Continental Grain, working throughout the Midwest. Although the experience was invaluable, the Sonoran Desert eventually called me home.
 

Back in Arizona, I spent time as a Brokerage Associate with New York Life before transitioning into commercial banking as a Commercial Loan Officer with First Interstate Bank.
 

Family came first when I joined my father's business, Firebird Foods, a sales and marketing company. After helping transition my father into retirement, I sold the business and pursued a career that aligned with my true passion helping individuals and families build financial confidence.
 

That decision led me to Vanguard, where I set out to become a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional and financial advisor.
 

Over more than 18 years at Vanguard, I held a variety of roles that broadened my expertise across the investment landscape.
 

I began as a Brokerage Associate, building a strong foundation in individual stocks and mutual funds, before specializing in fixed income investments. As a Bond Specialist and later Senior Fixed Income Specialist, I developed deep expertise in bond markets and sophisticated fixed income strategies while helping clients navigate changing market conditions.

I earned my CFP® certification in 2009, and when Vanguard launched Personal Advisor Services in 2015, I enthusiastically embraced the opportunity to provide comprehensive financial planning alongside investment management.
 

By 2024, I had the privilege of advising more than 240 clients and helping oversee approximately $500 million in assets. I then transitioned to a small local Registered Investment Advisory firm that I enjoyed for a time.

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Joining Prospera Capital Management and opening Knowlton Wealth Management has been an exciting transition and the opportunity to serve clients with a more personalized approach is one I am grateful to embrace.
 

Today, I am proud to help clients pursue their financial goals with personalized advice, thoughtful planning, and the confidence that comes from having a trusted partner by their side.
 

Outside of the office, I am happily married to my wife, Stephanie. We have three sons and share our home with two beloved terriers. Family has always been at the center of my life, and that perspective continues to shape the way I serve my clients with a long-term focus, genuine care, and a commitment to helping families build lasting financial confidence.