As the CEO and Chief Investment Officer for STA Wealth Management, Luke Patterson has over 20 years of investment experience, including portfolio management, equity, and debt securities, options, and alternative investments. Over his career, he has represented corporate clients and high net worth individuals and their families in a diverse range of financial transactions. In his roles as STA Wealth Management’s Chief Investment Officer and a member of its investment committee, Luke is responsible for directing the firm’s investment strategy, portfolio management, financial analysis, and research. He focuses on identifying and implementing broad, multi-asset investment opportunities for client investment portfolios. Luke adheres to a disciplined investment strategy centered on conservative principles, effective risk management and capital preservation – all aimed at achieving long-term results for each client. Luke is also the head of our Business Development Department.

Michael Smith is President and Partner of STA Wealth Management and has over 15 years of investment experience. His experience includes portfolio management, securities markets, debt securities, equities, options, and alternative investments. Michael holds a B.A. in Business Management from Sam Houston State University.

Jim Atkinson is the Chief Operating Officer/Head of M&A and has over 25 years in the wealth management industry providing management and oversight to both the fiduciary and brokerage industry.  Jim provides a unique insight into the operational, investment, product, technology and investment banking aspects of the wealth management industry. As COO/Head of M&A he is responsible for oversight of STA’s operations and advisor acquisition team identifying ideal candidates, modeling, and onboarding. Prior to joining STA Wealth Management, Jim served as Executive Vice President of a large Houston based wealth management firm providing supervision of the client advisory staff in addition to serving on the Management Committee and Board of Directors.  Further, he spent 12 years as Vice President of Sales with Fidelity Investments in their Institutional Wealth Services division.  Previous experience includes co-founding a successful investment banking firm focused on structuring debt and equity for small to mid-sized businesses. Originally from Southern California, Jim relocated to Texas in 1996.  He holds a BSBA and received his MBA from Baylor University. Jim has a son and daughter and is actively involved in their sports, arts and musical interests.  He also enjoys traveling, camping and skiing with his children, friends and family. [maxbutton id="1" ]

Preston Snow is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ at STA Wealth Management.  A CFP since 2009, Preston serves his clients by offering comprehensive financial planning through a systematic approach that includes retirement preparedness assessment and income planning, financial modeling, cash flow analysis, risk assessment/management and more. With a passion for helping clients live a less stressful life, Preston strives to make a positive difference in the lives of the families he serves by assisting them in getting their financial affairs in order.  He offers customized financial planning services tailored to the unique goals of each entrusted family.  Through a disciplined process-driven approach, he prioritizes providing value to his clients’ time while establishing and implementing a financial game plan. Prior to joining the STA Wealth Management team, Preston provided financial planning services to high net worth individuals and families as a Private Client Advisor at JPMorgan Chase from 2004-2018.  He is a graduate of Texas A&M University with a Bachelors Degree in Agricultural Economics. Preston and his wife have two sons and he enjoys traveling with his family, fishing and coaching youth sports. [maxbutton id="1" ]

Brad Covey is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ at STA Wealth Management.  A CFP® with over 20-years’ experience, his clients include high net worth families, business owners, and corporate executives.  Brad’s clients rely on him to create, implement and monitor comprehensive, in-depth financial plans that address Estate Planning, Tax Planning, Risk Management, Investment Management, and Retirement Planning.

To accomplish this task, Brad adeptly leverages the intellectual capital offered by the STA Wealth Management Family Office environment.  His clients all receive carefully coordinated, strategic, and tactical access to an in-house team of credentialed Financial Planners, Attorneys, Tax Professionals, Investments Analysts, and Insurance Professionals who are equally passionate about working together to address all aspects of the client’s financial well-being.

Prior to joining STA Wealth Management, Brad spent 17 years as a Private Client Advisor with JP Morgan Chase.  He has been married to his wife Lorraine for 20 years and they have 14-year old twin daughters. He is a member of the Knight of Columbus, regularly serves in the St. Michaels Parish as an Altar Server and Eucharistic Minister and has coached youth sports teams for 15 seasons.

As the CEO and Chief Investment Officer for STA Wealth Management, Luke Patterson has over 20 years of investment experience, including portfolio management, equity, and debt securities, options, and alternative investments. Over his career, he has represented corporate clients and high net worth individuals and their families in a diverse range of financial transactions. In his roles as STA Wealth Management’s Chief Investment Officer and a member of its investment committee, Luke is responsible for directing the firm’s investment strategy, portfolio management, financial analysis, and research. He focuses on identifying and implementing broad, multi-asset investment opportunities for client investment portfolios. Luke adheres to a disciplined investment strategy centered on conservative principles, effective risk management and capital preservation – all aimed at achieving long-term results for each client. Luke is also the head of our Business Development Department.

Michael Smith is President and Partner of STA Wealth Management and has over 15 years of investment experience. His experience includes portfolio management, securities markets, debt securities, equities, options, and alternative investments. Michael holds a B.A. in Business Management from Sam Houston State University.

With more than 12 years in providing a comprehensive range of investment planning services to clients, Cy G. Cattan joined STA Wealth Management in August 2013 as Senior Director of Wealth Management for STA Wealth Advisors (an affiliate of STA Wealth Management, LLC). Cy primarily serves high net worth individuals, executives, retirees and business owners to achieve their goals for retirement, investment, business succession and estate planning. He specializes in locating private equity deals for high net worth, accredited investors. Prior to joining the STA Wealth Management team, Cy was a founding partner of Sound Financial Solutions, L.P. in Houston, TX where he and his team worked collaboratively to assist their clients in organizing their financial, accounting and legal matters. Cy began his career in the investment industry as a financial planner with Sagemark Consulting, where he provided fee-based financial planning for wealthy individuals and families across Texas. During his first year at Sagemark Consulting, Cy was ranked as Sagemark’s top new planner nationally among his peer group. Before joining Sagemark Consulting, Cy worked in the insurance industry with North Western Mutual Life Insurance Company. Cy is a graduate of Baylor University in Waco, TX with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Financial Services and Planning. He earned the Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF) professional designation from the Center of Fiduciary Studies, which is associated with the University of Pittsburgh. In addition, he has participated in extensive formal training programs in investment fiduciary responsibility, including the Kingdom Advisors training program that emphasizes helping families to manage their wealth in a biblical manner. As part of his community involvement activities, Cy is a long-time board member for Every Village, a nonprofit Christian organization which seeks to improve the physical and spiritual health of people in southern Sudan. Cy is an active member of Grace Bible in Houston. Cy and his wife Allison have two sons, Cole and Carter. Cy enjoys bow hunting and quail hunting in South Texas with friends, family and clients. [maxbutton id="1" ]

Preston Snow is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ at STA Wealth Management.  A CFP since 2009, Preston serves his clients by offering comprehensive financial planning through a systematic approach that includes retirement preparedness assessment and income planning, financial modeling, cash flow analysis, risk assessment/management and more. With a passion for helping clients live a less stressful life, Preston strives to make a positive difference in the lives of the families he serves by assisting them in getting their financial affairs in order.  He offers customized financial planning services tailored to the unique goals of each entrusted family.  Through a disciplined process-driven approach, he prioritizes providing value to his clients’ time while establishing and implementing a financial game plan. Prior to joining the STA Wealth Management team, Preston provided financial planning services to high net worth individuals and families as a Private Client Advisor at JPMorgan Chase from 2004-2018.  He is a graduate of Texas A&M University with a Bachelors Degree in Agricultural Economics. Preston and his wife have two sons and he enjoys traveling with his family, fishing and coaching youth sports. [maxbutton id="1" ]

Scott Bishop has been working in the financial services industry since 1995. In 2014, Scott joined STA Wealth Management, LLC (STA), as the Director of Financial Planning. Prior to joining STA, Scott was a founding partner at Sound Financial Solutions, L.P. and worked with Research Financial Strategies. Throughout his career, Scott has focused on working with his clients to customize the financial planning process to identify specific estate, business succession, investment and retirement strategies for individual clients and their businesses. In providing these services, our STA team utilizes a very comprehensive and customized approach that helps to assure that our client's planning and investment opportunities are identified and correctly addressed now and into the future. Scott graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting and received his Master of Business Administration from the University of St. Thomas. Prior to his co-founding of Sound Financial Solutions, L.P., Scott worked as an auditor for Arthur Andersen & Co. L.L.P; as a senior accountant for Energy Development Corporation and PetroCorp Incorporated; as a registered principal for Government Securities Corporation and Coastal Securities L.L.P; and as a financial advisor for Sagemark Consulting (the successor firm to CIGNA Financial Advisors). Currently, Scott is a CERTIFIED  FINANCIAL PLANNER^TM  practitioner  (CFP^®)  and a  Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Over the years, Scott has conducted Continuing Education courses for Certified Public Accountants. In addition, Scott has both authored and has been interviewed for numerous articles in financial related publications and websites such as The Wall Street Journal, MarketWatch, CNBC, New York Times, Washington Post, Time, Investor’s Business Daily, Barron’s, USA Today, Money Magazine, Investopedia.com, Investment News, Kiplinger, WealthManagement.com, The AICPA Tax Section, BankRate.com, the Houston Business Journal and the CPA Forum. For his writings and contributions, Scott was named in 2019 as a Top 100 Financial Advisor in America by Investopedia.  Related to his retirement planning experience, Scott is also a member of the member of Ed Slott’s Master Elite IRA Advisor Group^SM. Scott was recently made an Advisory Board Member for the University of Texas McCombs School of Business Wealth Management Center. Scott has been active as a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and holds the Personal Financial Specialist (PFS) accreditation. Also, he has been on the Board of Directors of the Houston CPA Society and has been Chairman of the Personal Financial Planning Committee and is a member of the Finance/Investment Committee. He was also recognized for excellence by being named the Young CPA of the Year for 2002-2003 by the Houston CPA Society. This award was given based on an open nomination of the membership and submitted to the Houston CPA Society board (with consideration to community service, activity within the Houston CPA Society and being in good standing with the Texas Society of CPAs). Texas Monthly Magazine has also recognized Scott as a Five Star Wealth Manager from 2009 to 2012*. * The recognition is based on client satisfaction. Respondents evaluate criteria such as customer service, expertise, value for fee charged and overall satisfaction with the overall score based on an average of all respondents and may not be representative of any one client's experience. [maxbutton id="1" ]

Brad Covey is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ at STA Wealth Management.  A CFP® with over 20-years’ experience, his clients include high net worth families, business owners, and corporate executives.  Brad’s clients rely on him to create, implement and monitor comprehensive, in-depth financial plans that address Estate Planning, Tax Planning, Risk Management, Investment Management, and Retirement Planning.

To accomplish this task, Brad adeptly leverages the intellectual capital offered by the STA Wealth Management Family Office environment.  His clients all receive carefully coordinated, strategic, and tactical access to an in-house team of credentialed Financial Planners, Attorneys, Tax Professionals, Investments Analysts, and Insurance Professionals who are equally passionate about working together to address all aspects of the client’s financial well-being.

Prior to joining STA Wealth Management, Brad spent 17 years as a Private Client Advisor with JP Morgan Chase.  He has been married to his wife Lorraine for 20 years and they have 14-year old twin daughters. He is a member of the Knight of Columbus, regularly serves in the St. Michaels Parish as an Altar Server and Eucharistic Minister and has coached youth sports teams for 15 seasons.

Carter Blackburn joined the team at STA Wealth Management in 2017 and serves as Wealth Advisor. He is also the Associate Vice President of Mergers and Acquisitions. Carter is blessed with the opportunity every day to work with business professionals and entrepreneurs in meeting their financial goals and objectives through financial planning. Prior to joining STA, Carter worked for 14 years with business executives, where he specialized in providing entertainment solutions for companies such as Toyota, Waste Management, and HP. Carter also worked with Houston families as an associate minister at one of the largest churches in America, Second Baptist Church for many years. Carter graduated from Southwestern and sits on the executive board for FCA Ministries in Houston. He and his wife, Sarah have a daughter named Nora. They love traveling and sharing their passion for Jesus with others. [maxbutton id="1" ]

Bringing over 30 years of experience in finance and business, Craig J. Buhr serves as a Financial Advisor to STA Wealth Management clients. Craig’s responsibilities include financial planning, tax strategies and needs analysis for trusts and other financial investment products. His knowledge and experience benefit clients at all levels – from business professionals to individual families. Prior to joining STA Wealth Management in 2012, Craig worked as a Financial Advisor with Wells Fargo Advisors. In addition to the finance service industry, he has extensive experience in the oil and medical sectors. Craig began his career as an auditor for a major oil company and later served as an oil trader of refined petroleum products. For 10 years, he was the owner and CEO of a large medical distribution company. Craig graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Accounting. A resident of Bellaire since 1995, he and his wife Paula have a son and two daughters. [maxbutton id="1" ]

Kevin has over 20 years of experience in financial planning and investment management. He earned the Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA® ) designation in 2001 and is a member of the Houston Society of Financial Analysts. Kevin has extensive experience in portfolio management and was also a member of the due-diligence investment committees at JPMorgan and a regional boutique wealth management firm. Kevin is actively engaged in the financial planning process and is responsible for creating and implementing customized investment solutions that are consistent with the unique aspects of each client's financial plan. He works closely with other team members to help provide a coordinated process that delivers a comprehensive array of value-added financial solutions for our clients. Kevin works out of our Woodlands and CityCentre locations to best serve his clients. Kevin earned a BBA degree in Finance at Sam Houston State University, with an emphasis on investment management. Kevin enjoys skiing, fishing, and time with family and friends.   [maxbutton id="1" ]

Michael Churchill has been working in the public accounting industry since 2007 and has been a licensed Certified Public Accountant since 2010.  In 2018, Mike joined STA Wealth Management as a Wealth Advisor to support the financial planning team with its mission.  His transition to the wealth management and financial planning industry from the public accounting industry is fueled by his passion to help key executives, business owners, high net worth families, retirees, and successful entrepreneurs achieve their financial goals and objectives. Throughout Mike’s career, he has experience servicing clients regarding their Tax & Compliance, Accounting & Reporting, and Business Strategy and & Transition Planning; more specifically, tax planning strategies, corporate and individual taxation, outsourced accounting and controllership/CFO, business succession/exit strategies, retirement, and estate planning. Prior to joining STA Wealth Management, Mike worked for large local and regional public accounting firms in Texas and Wisconsin.  In addition to public accounting, Mike helped nurture and grow a developing technology startup focusing on providing fully integrated, incentive-based customer relationship management solutions for small businesses. Mike graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree double majoring in Accounting & Finance as well as a Master of Science Degree in Professional Accounting from the Lubar School of Business.  He was an Alumni Scholarship recipient, Lubar Scholarship recipient, and graduated Magna Cum Laude. Mike is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) as well as the Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants. [maxbutton id="1" ]

During the past eight years, Patrick Fleming has served a growing portfolio of clients, including high net worth individuals and business owners, to meet their estate, retirement, business and investment planning objectives. In August 2013, Patrick joined STA Wealth Advisors as Senior Director of Wealth Management for STA Wealth Advisors (an affiliate of STA Wealth Management, LLC) where he works in coordination with the company’s team to provide a comprehensive range of financial and investment strategies for each client. Prior to joining STA Wealth, Patrick worked for Sound Financial Solutions. He began his career with the company as a financial advisor and then directed its financial planning department. In addition to serving his clients, Patrick worked with other advisors on investment planning ideas and concepts for the firm’s clients. Patrick graduated from Texas A&M University with a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree in Finance and received a Certificate in International Business from the Mays Business School. He was a scholarship player on Texas A&M’s football team and earned a varsity letter as a freshman, as well as the CHAMPS academic achievement award. Patrick enjoys volunteering with the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo as part of the World Championship BBQ Cook-off Committee. He also serves his alma mater as a member of the Texas A&M Letterman’s Association. Patrick enjoys hunting and fishing. He and his wife Melissa reside in Cypress. [maxbutton id="1" ]

David joins STA Wealth Management with over a decade of financial planning and investment advice experience. During that time, he has helped families and individuals navigate financial markets to achieve their short and long term goals. Through a disciplined process of listening and understanding each client’s unique goals and objectives, David utilizes the extensive resources available at STA Wealth Management to create an achievable and proactive financial strategy. Throughout his career, David carries a passion for sharing his understanding of financial markets and assisting clients with making smart decisions in managing their wealth. David attended the University of Houston and holds a Bachelors Degree in Finance from the C.T. Bauer College of Business. Prior to joining STA Wealth Management, David held the role of a JP Morgan Private Client Advisor providing investment solutions and planning advice for Chase Private Clients. David and his wife Natalie reside in Rice Military and enjoy spending time with family, traveling, and serving their community. [maxbutton id="1" ]

Robert brings more than two decades of investment management and financial planning experience in addressing the needs of high net worth families, entrepreneurs, and executives. He Joined STA Wealth Management in 2019. Prior to joining STA, Robert was a Senior Vice­ President of Investments and Senior Portfolio Manager at UBS Financial Services Inc for over 20 years. Robert works with clients to develop personalized financial plans to achieve their goals for retirement, investment, business succession, and wealth-transfer planning. He offers a true family office experience by utilizing STA's in-house team of credentialed financial planners, attorneys, tax professionals, and investment analysts to assist in all aspects of his clients' financial lives. Robert graduated from Baylor University with a bachelor of business administration degree in Finance and received his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™(CFP®) education from Rice University. As part of his community involvement activities, Robert is involved in coaching youth sports, multiple missions that focus on adoption, church planting, Bible translation, and Angel Flight. He is also active at Christ Community Church in Houston. Robert and his wife, Ronna, have two sons, Luke and Logan. Robert enjoys traveling with his family, spending time at their lake house in Carlton Landing, Oklahoma, and all things aviation. [maxbutton id="1" ]

Karl Krueger is a native Houstonian and has worked in the financial services industry since 1994. Karl joined STA Wealth Management in 2015 after having worked at Fidelity Investments for the prior 11 years.  Karl has extensive experience in financial planning and investments and has consulted with hundreds of individuals and families in the pursuit of their personal financial goals.  Karl is a graduate of Texas A&M University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science and History.   Karl and his wife Johanna have two sons and have lived in Katy since 1999.

After 30 years in his practice, David Lee has joined STA Wealth Management as a Senior Wealth Advisor. He brings many years of experience in providing generational planning for families as they transition through various life stages. Being particularly committed to supporting spouses that have been widowed, he has developed an appreciation for the relationships developed in serving families through this challenging time. David established his tax, accounting and financial planning practice in 1990, focusing on individuals and small businesses including many in medical specialties. From 1984, before establishing his firm, Mr. Lee was an officer with a personal financial planning firm. Previous to that, he spent four years with Occidental Petroleum Corporation responsible for federal income tax compliance for the Chemical Division. David was also involved with corporate tax planning, forecasting, and year-end audits. A graduate of the University of Houston, Mr. Lee received his master’s degree in Accounting in 1978 and a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Accounting in 1976. Mr. Lee has been a Board Member of the Planned Giving Council of Houston and Gracewood, a non-profit ministry to single mothers and their children.  He is active in his church and currently serves in various leadership capacities. David is married with 3 children and 5 grandchildren. [maxbutton id="1" ]

Nicholas Low joins the team at STA Wealth Management with over 10 years of helping his clients manage both sides of their balance sheet.  Through financial planning, risk management, and goal-based investing, he walks his clients through both the cycles of life and business.  Nick works with business owners, retirees, private family offices, and executives. A former Marine having served in combat deployments overseas, Nicholas is a graduate and active alumnus of the University of Houston and an acting Vice Chairman of the Armed Forces Appreciation Committee of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Prior to joining STA Wealth Management, Nicholas served as a Private Client Advisor at J.P. Morgan Chase & Co where he provided financial and investment advice to Chase Private Clients.   [maxbutton id="1" ]

Travis Oglesby is an industry veteran who began his career in financial services after graduating from Truman State University in 1999 with a bachelor’s degree in finance. He later continued his education to receive an MBA from Rockhurst University. Mr. Oglesby adeptly leverages the intellectual capital offered by the STA Wealth Management Family Office environment. Mr. Oglesby’s clients all receive carefully coordinated, strategic, and tactical access to an in-house team of credentialed Financial Planners, attorneys, tax professionals, investments analysts, and insurance professionals who are equally passionate about working together to address all aspects of their financial well-being. Prior to joining STA Wealth Managements, Mr. Oglesby spent 19 years with Ivy Distributors with the last 12 years as Regional Vice President of South/Central Texas. In the role of Regional VP, Mr. Oglesby provided education to financial advisers on market forecasts, risk management, investment selection, and client servicing techniques. Mr. Oglesby and his wife, Rucia, have been married since 2016, and are now enjoying parenthood with their toddler son, Finn, and infant daughter, Piper. [maxbutton id="1" ]

Josh Patterson has been working in the financial services industry since 1998. In 2018, Josh joined STA Wealth Management, LLC (STA) as a Senior Wealth Advisor. Prior to joining STA, Josh was a founding partner of an independent wealth management firm, where his primary focus was on new business development, investment management, maintaining client relationships and serving the financial planning needs of the firm’s clients.  Prior to founding his wealth management firm, in 2002, Josh worked as an Associate Vice President with Morgan Stanley Financial Services where he focused on new business development.  Josh began his career in 1998 with UBS Financial Services. Josh attended Texas Lutheran University where he earned a Bachelor of Science – Double Major in Mathematics and Economics, 1998, and spent one semester in Washington DC studying economic policy while attending American University. Currently, Josh is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ practitioner (CFP®). Josh is actively involved within the Financial Planning Association, Houston Chapter, to enhance the scope and efficiency of the financial planning process for clients. Josh is actively involved at his local church where he and his wife lead a weekly bible study class.  He also enjoys coaching his children’s various sports’ teams.  Josh and his wife Nisha have been married since 2000 and have three children, Logan Andie and Eli. [maxbutton id="1" ]  

Sarahbeth Pipkin has been working in the financial services industry since 2008. Sarahbeth joined STA Wealth Management in September 2019. Prior to STA, Sarahbeth was with UBS Financial Services Inc. where she began her career as a Financial Advisor. Sarahbeth strives to provide the highest level of service by drawing on her extensive experience in financial planning to understand her clients' needs and objectives. She works with individuals and families to create a holistic wealth management strategy that addresses all aspects of their lives. By drawing on the resources available at STA Wealth Management, Sarahbeth offers clients the ability to integrate their tax and estate planning needs with their investment and financial planning goals. Sarahbeth is passionate about partnering with clients to grow their wealth so they can make the impact they desire on the community and future generations. Sarahbeth graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a bachelor's degree in finance and a minor in accounting from the Mccombs School of Business. She received her CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) education from Rice University. Sarahbeth and her husband, Taylor Pipkin, have three children, Lucy, James, and Caroline. She enjoys spending time with her family and traveling. [maxbutton id="1" ]

Christopher joined STA in the fall of 2017 after graduating from Hendrix College in Conway, Arkansas, and completing his bachelor’s degree in Economics. His first role with the firm was to assist one of our firm’s newest advisors, David Sabonghy, with his transition into STA. Christopher then joined co-founder Michael Smith’s team in June of 2018 as an assistant where he was heavily involved with client management, financial planning, retention, interfacing, and overall service. In June of 2020, Christopher moved into the role of Associate Advisor and works directly with the clients of Michael Smith and Brad Covey in developing financial plans, formulating client strategies, and providing the best client service experience possible. Outside of work, Chris’ hobbies include cooking, playing guitar, sports, and taking care of his pups. [maxbutton id="1" ]

David Sabonghy joined STA Wealth Management as a Senior Wealth Advisor in October 2017.  David has been in the wealth management industry since 2002 and specializes in complex wealth management and transfer issues, including stock option planning, executive compensation, complex trust and estate planning, and charitable giving.   Throughout his career he has represented high net worth individuals and their families in a diverse range of financial services. Prior to joining STA Wealth Management, David worked with reputable companies such as, Ameriprise Financial and Morgan Stanley Wealth Management. A native of Texas, David graduated from Strake Jesuit in Houston and then to Spring Hill College in Mobile, Alabama, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in International Business with a focus on Economics. David is a board member for Medical Missions of Divine Mercy, a non-profit organization which serves those in need of medical attention in remote areas.  In addition, he is a board member for God’s Garden, which aims to grow food organically for various food banks and help educate the local community on basic gardening for sustainability.   [maxbutton id="1" ]

Elena Sharma began her career with STA Wealth Management in January 2013, following her successful completion as an intern with Streettalk Advisors. As a member of STA Wealth’s financial planning team Elena works in conjunction with the advisors to create efficient and effective wealth management strategies for our clients. She takes a holistic approach in analyzing each client’s unique situation, assets, goals and life-stage to develop a comprehensive financial plan. Elena’s responsibilities include the preparation of financial plans with a focus on retirement planning, college funding, estate planning, and risk management. Elena graduated from Texas Tech University with a Master of Science degree in Personal Financial Planning. She is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ practitioner and a Retirement Income Certified Professional®. Elena enjoys cooking, reading, traveling and spending time with her family and friends. [maxbutton id="1" ]

Ana Maria Gonzalez Wood, JD, CFP®, CLU®, CHFC® is a financial professional  with over 30 years of professional experience in accounting, law and financial services, Ana Maria brings a wealth of unique skills to her practice as a trusted advisor to her clients.  She advises small business owners and other high net worth individuals on comprehensive financial planning matters, including risk management, estate planning, retirement planning, and business succession matters in order to maximize and protect their wealth.  As a bilingual financial professional, she advises both domestic and foreign national clients in her practice. Ana Maria graduated from Saint Mary’s College, Notre Dame, IN, summa cum laude, with a BBA in concentrations in Accounting and Finance.  She passed the CPA that same year and began her professional career at KPMG as tax associate in the oil and gas and financial planning practice group.  After obtaining the business experience required to be licensed, she left public accounting to return to school.  She graduated with a JD, cum laude, from the University of Pennsylvania Biddle School of Law.  She returned to Houston to practice as an estate planning attorney with Fulbright and Jaworski (the current Norton Rose Fulbright).  As an attorney she co-authored several speeches and articles with her mentor in the areas of business continuation planning, charitable planning and post mortem estate planning. In 1994, Ana Maria left her second career as a practicing attorney to follow her entrepreneurial spirit and join the insurance and benefit consulting business that her mother, a pension actuary, had founded in 1967.   Ana Maria continued the insurance and deferred compensation planning practice and expanded it to include a financial planning and estate planning practice ultimately founding AMGWealth Planning Solutions.  In addition to her private practice, she assists other advisors in assessing the life insurance needs of their clients, as Regional Sales Vice President for Pinnacle Insurance and Financial Services, LLC. In order to maintain the highest level of professionalism and remain current, she has continued to earn professional designations.  She holds the CLU® and CHFC® professional designations from the American College of Insurance.  She is also a CFP® practitioner.  She has also formed alliances with CPAs and attorneys to assist her in bringing comprehensive strategic business solutions to her clients. Ana Maria has earned numerous citations and awards from insurance companies for outstanding sales and service.  She is a frequent guest speaker for various audiences.  She was a guest lecturer at the 2009 Hispana Leadership Summit, The EWomen Network 2010 International Conference and Business Expo and the 2010 and 2011 National Hispana Leadership Institute Training Conference and Mujer Awards. In addition to her professional leadership roles, Ana Maria is passionate about philanthropy and lends her financial and development skills to various nonprofit organizations in Houston.  She is a sustaining member of the Junior League and is past  President and Trustee of the Board of The Saint Agnes Academy Foundation. Ana Maria resides in Houston with her husband, John and children, Carolina (20) and William (18). Licenses held:  Group I, Life and Health; General Lines; Series 6, 7, 63 and 65, Law (not practicing) [maxbutton id="1" ]

Michael Smith is President and Partner of STA Wealth Management and has over 15 years of investment experience. His experience includes portfolio management, securities markets, debt securities, equities, options, and alternative investments. Michael holds a B.A. in Business Management from Sam Houston State University.

Ana Maria Gonzalez Wood, JD, CFP®, CLU®, CHFC® is a financial professional  with over 30 years of professional experience in accounting, law and financial services, Ana Maria brings a wealth of unique skills to her practice as a trusted advisor to her clients.  She advises small business owners and other high net worth individuals on comprehensive financial planning matters, including risk management, estate planning, retirement planning, and business succession matters in order to maximize and protect their wealth.  As a bilingual financial professional, she advises both domestic and foreign national clients in her practice. Ana Maria graduated from Saint Mary’s College, Notre Dame, IN, summa cum laude, with a BBA in concentrations in Accounting and Finance.  She passed the CPA that same year and began her professional career at KPMG as tax associate in the oil and gas and financial planning practice group.  After obtaining the business experience required to be licensed, she left public accounting to return to school.  She graduated with a JD, cum laude, from the University of Pennsylvania Biddle School of Law.  She returned to Houston to practice as an estate planning attorney with Fulbright and Jaworski (the current Norton Rose Fulbright).  As an attorney she co-authored several speeches and articles with her mentor in the areas of business continuation planning, charitable planning and post mortem estate planning. In 1994, Ana Maria left her second career as a practicing attorney to follow her entrepreneurial spirit and join the insurance and benefit consulting business that her mother, a pension actuary, had founded in 1967.   Ana Maria continued the insurance and deferred compensation planning practice and expanded it to include a financial planning and estate planning practice ultimately founding AMGWealth Planning Solutions.  In addition to her private practice, she assists other advisors in assessing the life insurance needs of their clients, as Regional Sales Vice President for Pinnacle Insurance and Financial Services, LLC. In order to maintain the highest level of professionalism and remain current, she has continued to earn professional designations.  She holds the CLU® and CHFC® professional designations from the American College of Insurance.  She is also a CFP® practitioner.  She has also formed alliances with CPAs and attorneys to assist her in bringing comprehensive strategic business solutions to her clients. Ana Maria has earned numerous citations and awards from insurance companies for outstanding sales and service.  She is a frequent guest speaker for various audiences.  She was a guest lecturer at the 2009 Hispana Leadership Summit, The EWomen Network 2010 International Conference and Business Expo and the 2010 and 2011 National Hispana Leadership Institute Training Conference and Mujer Awards. In addition to her professional leadership roles, Ana Maria is passionate about philanthropy and lends her financial and development skills to various nonprofit organizations in Houston.  She is a sustaining member of the Junior League and is past  President and Trustee of the Board of The Saint Agnes Academy Foundation. Ana Maria resides in Houston with her husband, John and children, Carolina (20) and William (18). Licenses held:  Group I, Life and Health; General Lines; Series 6, 7, 63 and 65, Law (not practicing) [maxbutton id="1" ]

As the CEO and Chief Investment Officer for STA Wealth Management, Luke Patterson has over 20 years of investment experience, including portfolio management, equity, and debt securities, options, and alternative investments. Over his career, he has represented corporate clients and high net worth individuals and their families in a diverse range of financial transactions. In his roles as STA Wealth Management’s Chief Investment Officer and a member of its investment committee, Luke is responsible for directing the firm’s investment strategy, portfolio management, financial analysis, and research. He focuses on identifying and implementing broad, multi-asset investment opportunities for client investment portfolios. Luke adheres to a disciplined investment strategy centered on conservative principles, effective risk management and capital preservation – all aimed at achieving long-term results for each client. Luke is also the head of our Business Development Department.

Kevin has over 20 years of experience in financial planning and investment management. He earned the Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA® ) designation in 2001 and is a member of the Houston Society of Financial Analysts. Kevin has extensive experience in portfolio management and was also a member of the due-diligence investment committees at JPMorgan and a regional boutique wealth management firm. Kevin is actively engaged in the financial planning process and is responsible for creating and implementing customized investment solutions that are consistent with the unique aspects of each client's financial plan. He works closely with other team members to help provide a coordinated process that delivers a comprehensive array of value-added financial solutions for our clients. Kevin works out of our Woodlands and CityCentre locations to best serve his clients. Kevin earned a BBA degree in Finance at Sam Houston State University, with an emphasis on investment management. Kevin enjoys skiing, fishing, and time with family and friends.   [maxbutton id="1" ]

Andrei Costas has been with STA Wealth Management since June 2013. He joined the firm as a Quantitative Equity Analyst Intern and following the successful completion of his internship stayed with STA Wealth Management as a Portfolio Manager. Andrei completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Maryland, College Park and earned an MBA at Rice University. He resides in West University and enjoys spending time with his family and friends, traveling, and reading.   [maxbutton id="1" ]

Nan Lu joined STA Wealth Management in May 2015. As a Senior Portfolio Manager, he assists the Chief Investment Officer Monitor market developments, improves financial models and research tools, and perform up-to-date analytics to make informed investment decisions. Nan provides daily support in the Fixed Income investment process by analyzing, evaluating, and communicating risks and value opportunities across Government, Municipal, Corporate, and Securitized debt securities. He is also responsible for the due diligence of STA Real Estate Funds. Nan holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Fudan University in Shanghai, China and earned an MBA in Finance from Rice University in Houston.

Robin Chan joined STA Wealth Management in March 2019. His prior work experience consists of three years at Stark Capital Management as trading, operations, and research services representative and seven years at Invesco with responsibilities focused on order execution, operations support, and client services. He graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a bachelor’s degree in economics and has passed the CFA® Level III exam. Robin was born and raised in Houston and now lives in Oak Forest with his wife and son. He enjoys cooking, hiking, and spending time with his family.   [maxbutton id="1" ]  

As the Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) for STA Wealth Management, Hope Edick is responsible for adopting, implementing, and administering policies and procedures to ensure adherence to securities laws and regulations.  In addition to her compliance supervisory role, she serves on various firm leadership teams, including the Executive Leadership Team where she advises senior management on compliance matters. Hope has enjoyed 20 years in the financial services industry and has been with STA Wealth Management since 2004.  Before becoming the CCO, she served in various areas including client service associate, general operations manager, alternative investment coordinator, and client account billing. Hope began her career at Wunderlich Securities, where she was responsible for all back-office functions as well as maintenance of the portfolio management systems and billing for the investment advisory activities. Before her association in financial services, she was Director of Public Relations for a local company and a freelance publicist. A longtime resident of Houston, Hope enjoys spending time with her family and friends, LSU football, water activities, and live music. [maxbutton id="1" ]

Rachel Daniels joined STA Wealth Management in December 2012. As Operations Manager, Rachel works to build an infrastructure to support company growth, maintain the firm’s culture, and build administrative operational efficiency, productivity, and quality. Additional responsibilities include managing daily activities within the operations department. Serves as an intermediary between operations staff and the Compliance department and Executive Leadership Team. Supervises operations staff in the performance of their duties and is responsible for establishing or contributing ideas for department processes and procedures. Rachel leads a team of internal and external partners towards effective and efficient advisor transitions. Rachel serves on multiple leadership teams at STA including Technology, Client/Advisor Experience, M&A, and Business Development. Rachel is also responsible for running the STAWealth.com website as well as all of our social media platforms. Rachel grew up in Jersey Village and currently resides in the Cypress area. She enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, as well as family and friends. She is very active in her church community, she loves classic movies and live music. [maxbutton id="1" ]

Katherine Yarber has served as the Chief Accounting Officer at STA Wealth since February of 2011. Her responsibilities include  Billing, Payroll/Benefits, Financial Reporting, Tax, Accounts Payable/Receivable, Budgeting and Special Projects. Katherine is a Certified Public Accountant. She graduated with honors and received her BS in Business Administration and Accounting from The University of Tennessee, in Knoxville, TN. Her minor areas of study include Finance, Economics, and World Literature. Her hobbies include fitness, interior and fashion design as well as self-study of Theology. [maxbutton id="1" ]

Jim Atkinson is the Chief Operating Officer/Head of M&A and has over 25 years in the wealth management industry providing management and oversight to both the fiduciary and brokerage industry.  Jim provides a unique insight into the operational, investment, product, technology and investment banking aspects of the wealth management industry. As COO/Head of M&A he is responsible for oversight of STA’s operations and advisor acquisition team identifying ideal candidates, modeling, and onboarding. Prior to joining STA Wealth Management, Jim served as Executive Vice President of a large Houston based wealth management firm providing supervision of the client advisory staff in addition to serving on the Management Committee and Board of Directors.  Further, he spent 12 years as Vice President of Sales with Fidelity Investments in their Institutional Wealth Services division.  Previous experience includes co-founding a successful investment banking firm focused on structuring debt and equity for small to mid-sized businesses. Originally from Southern California, Jim relocated to Texas in 1996.  He holds a BSBA and received his MBA from Baylor University. Jim has a son and daughter and is actively involved in their sports, arts and musical interests.  He also enjoys traveling, camping and skiing with his children, friends and family. [maxbutton id="1" ]

Rachel Daniels joined STA Wealth Management in December 2012. As Operations Manager, Rachel works to build an infrastructure to support company growth, maintain the firm’s culture, and build administrative operational efficiency, productivity, and quality. Additional responsibilities include managing daily activities within the operations department. Serves as an intermediary between operations staff and the Compliance department and Executive Leadership Team. Supervises operations staff in the performance of their duties and is responsible for establishing or contributing ideas for department processes and procedures. Rachel leads a team of internal and external partners towards effective and efficient advisor transitions. Rachel serves on multiple leadership teams at STA including Technology, Client/Advisor Experience, M&A, and Business Development. Rachel is also responsible for running the STAWealth.com website as well as all of our social media platforms. Rachel grew up in Jersey Village and currently resides in the Cypress area. She enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, as well as family and friends. She is very active in her church community, she loves classic movies and live music. [maxbutton id="1" ]

Allison joined STA in May 2020. Prior to joining STA, Allison served as a Client Operations Associate at Willis Johnson & Associates where she handled client paperwork, various service requests, and quarterly billing & reporting. Allison graduated from the University of Alabama in 2013 with a bachelor's degree in English. Throughout her professional career, Allison has found her strengths serving in a variety of administrative capacities across numerous industries. She enjoys handling the back-office operations and client service requests at STA. In her spare time, Allison enjoys attending sporting events, traveling, and spending time with her husband Eric and two chocolate labs Addie & Woodford. [maxbutton id="1" ]

Braxton Bartlett joined STA Wealth Management in 2020. He started working in the financial services industry in 2016 after graduating from Trinity University where he received his bachelor’s degree in Business while playing football. Braxton has made it his goal to provide exceptional service by building relationships with clients and implementing efficient systems. Braxton was born and raised in the Houston area. In his free time, he coaches and plays in an adult flag football league in Houston. He also serves as a board member for the Trinity University Alumni Houston chapter. He enjoys playing and watching sports with friends and family [maxbutton id="1" ]

Madelyn joined STA in June 2020. Prior to joining STA, she worked as a Client Service Assistant where she handled the preparation and follow-up for client meetings, created processes to increase firm efficiency, and addressed various client requests. Madelyn graduated from Texas Tech University in 2017 with a bachelor's degree in Personal Financial Planning. She has found a passion for addressing client needs and ensuring their plan is set up for success. At STA, she assists the team by supporting advisors and clients with various daily activities and prepares necessary paperwork for meetings. In her free time, she and her husband enjoy traveling, trying the newest restaurants and coffee shops across the city, and renovating their first home. [maxbutton id="1" ]

Liz joined STA Wealth Management in September 2019. As a Wealth Management Associate Liz is responsible for handling all new accounts, account funding, and account maintenance for the clients of our CEO Luke Patterson. A graduate of University of Texas in Austin, Liz began her career at Andersen Consulting working on large-scale oil and gas SAP implementation projects in the business process design group.  Following that, she moved to the Northeast to pursue a Masters of Business Administration at the Tuck School at Dartmouth. As her interests developed, Liz transitioned into the non-profit sector and spent roughly sixteen years serving in various ministries of the local church in Houston and in a Christian school.  She also completed a Masters of Divinity Program at Southern Seminary. Liz loves working with people and is excited about the collaborative environment at STA.   She enjoys administration and getting into the details.   She looks forward to being part of the STA team with a focus on client service. Outside of work, Liz enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time with family and friends.  She is actively involved in her local church community. [maxbutton id="1" ]

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Kaitlin has been working in the financial services industry since 2013. She joined STA Wealth Management in December 2019. Prior to STA, Kaitlin was a Registered Associate and Business Service Manager with Morgan Stanley where she focused on building and maintaining client relationships. Kaitlin assists with day-to-day administrative operations and the relationship management process. She provides additional support to the advisors to ensure clients receive superior service.  Kaitlin graduated from the University of Wyoming with a bachelor’s degree in finance and a minor in banking and financial services. Kaitlin and her husband, Blake, enjoy traveling and spending time with family and friends.   [maxbutton id="1" ]

Jennifer Garrett has been with STA Wealth Management since November 2008. She spent the first five years specializing in new accounts including account funding and all client account maintenance. Following that she served as Sales Associate Manager focusing primarily on daily operations and client service. Jennifer is now a Wealth Management Associate. She works directly with four of STA's Senior Wealth Advisors and their clients. She is cross trained in cashiering and trading. 

Jennifer attended Lonestar College and the University of Houston. She is a member of the Investment Advisor Association. She resides in Katy with her husband and daughter and enjoys spending time with her family and friends, cooking, reading and running.

Stephen Kirby joined the STA Wealth Management team in July 2015. He works in the financial planning department where his duties encompass retirement planning, education planning, and estate planning. Prior to joining STA, Stephen worked for Sound Financial Solutions in their financial planning department. Stephen graduated from Texas State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and History. After completing his undergraduate work, he went on to earn a law degree from the Michael E. Moritz College of Law at The Ohio State University. He is a member of the State Bar of Texas.

Stephen enjoys cooking and spending time with his family. Stephen, his wife Amy, and their children live in Sugar Land.

Mark Meyers, aka Max Gains provides background support and creative elements for the on-air hosts who are experts in money management. While focusing on keeping the show running on a professional format he also makes sure the show is as fun and interesting as it is informative. Max likes to think of himself as one of those people who knows a little about a lot of different things. This talent comes in handy on the show and allows him to take part in the discussion that can often be too technical for non-investment professionals or industry insiders… and brings it to a level that normal people and dogs can hear. [maxbutton id="1" ]

Michelle started at STA Wealth Management in February 2017. Michelle's primary responsibilities as Wealth Management Associate are to provide administrative support to multiple financial advisors and their clients, including calendar management, meeting preparation, and client maintenance.

Michelle was born and raised in Kansas City, MO. She graduated from Maple Woods Community College with an Associate of Arts: Field of Study in Business.  She’s a health food enthusiast, loves cooking, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. Newly married; she currently resides in Richmond, TX.

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Andrew Stires joined STA Wealth Management during the Summer of 2019 as a summer intern for one of our Senior Advisors, David Sabonghy. In the Fall of 2018, he obtained his bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas. While still at Texas Tech, he spent a large portion of his college career involved in community service, eventually serving as President of the community service organization Alpha Phi Omega. Currently, Andrew is heavily involved with accounting and billing alongside Katherine Yarber, Chief Accounting Officer.   [maxbutton id="1" ]

LaTika Tillis joined STA Wealth Management in 2013 and currently serves as Senior Wealth Management Associate. She is responsible for all essential functions relating to new and existing clients as well as maintaining client relationships. She focuses on creating, implementing, and sustaining effective client management during all stages of the financial planning process. She is a graduate of Baylor University. A native Houstonian, LaTika is a married mother of two beautiful girls and enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and singing. [maxbutton id="1" ]

Kim serves as a Wealth Management Associate with STA Wealth Management.  Prior to joining STA she worked with JPMorgan Chase as a banker and then advisor associate assisting clients with their financial needs. She has a degree from Houston Baptist University and is a long time Sugar Land resident. [maxbutton id="1" ]

As the CEO and Chief Investment Officer for STA Wealth Management, Luke Patterson has over 20 years of investment experience, including portfolio management, equity, and debt securities, options, and alternative investments. Over his career, he has represented corporate clients and high net worth individuals and their families in a diverse range of financial transactions. In his roles as STA Wealth Management’s Chief Investment Officer and a member of its investment committee, Luke is responsible for directing the firm’s investment strategy, portfolio management, financial analysis, and research. He focuses on identifying and implementing broad, multi-asset investment opportunities for client investment portfolios. Luke adheres to a disciplined investment strategy centered on conservative principles, effective risk management and capital preservation – all aimed at achieving long-term results for each client. Luke is also the head of our Business Development Department.

Jim Atkinson is the Chief Operating Officer/Head of M&A and has over 25 years in the wealth management industry providing management and oversight to both the fiduciary and brokerage industry.  Jim provides a unique insight into the operational, investment, product, technology and investment banking aspects of the wealth management industry. As COO/Head of M&A he is responsible for oversight of STA’s operations and advisor acquisition team identifying ideal candidates, modeling, and onboarding. Prior to joining STA Wealth Management, Jim served as Executive Vice President of a large Houston based wealth management firm providing supervision of the client advisory staff in addition to serving on the Management Committee and Board of Directors.  Further, he spent 12 years as Vice President of Sales with Fidelity Investments in their Institutional Wealth Services division.  Previous experience includes co-founding a successful investment banking firm focused on structuring debt and equity for small to mid-sized businesses. Originally from Southern California, Jim relocated to Texas in 1996.  He holds a BSBA and received his MBA from Baylor University. Jim has a son and daughter and is actively involved in their sports, arts and musical interests.  He also enjoys traveling, camping and skiing with his children, friends and family. [maxbutton id="1" ]

Rachel Daniels joined STA Wealth Management in December 2012. As Operations Manager, Rachel works to build an infrastructure to support company growth, maintain the firm’s culture, and build administrative operational efficiency, productivity, and quality. Additional responsibilities include managing daily activities within the operations department. Serves as an intermediary between operations staff and the Compliance department and Executive Leadership Team. Supervises operations staff in the performance of their duties and is responsible for establishing or contributing ideas for department processes and procedures. Rachel leads a team of internal and external partners towards effective and efficient advisor transitions. Rachel serves on multiple leadership teams at STA including Technology, Client/Advisor Experience, M&A, and Business Development. Rachel is also responsible for running the STAWealth.com website as well as all of our social media platforms. Rachel grew up in Jersey Village and currently resides in the Cypress area. She enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, as well as family and friends. She is very active in her church community, she loves classic movies and live music. [maxbutton id="1" ]

Carter Blackburn joined the team at STA Wealth Management in 2017 and serves as Wealth Advisor. He is also the Associate Vice President of Mergers and Acquisitions. Carter is blessed with the opportunity every day to work with business professionals and entrepreneurs in meeting their financial goals and objectives through financial planning. Prior to joining STA, Carter worked for 14 years with business executives, where he specialized in providing entertainment solutions for companies such as Toyota, Waste Management, and HP. Carter also worked with Houston families as an associate minister at one of the largest churches in America, Second Baptist Church for many years. Carter graduated from Southwestern and sits on the executive board for FCA Ministries in Houston. He and his wife, Sarah have a daughter named Nora. They love traveling and sharing their passion for Jesus with others. [maxbutton id="1" ]

Mark Meyers, aka Max Gains provides background support and creative elements for the on-air hosts who are experts in money management. While focusing on keeping the show running on a professional format he also makes sure the show is as fun and interesting as it is informative. Max likes to think of himself as one of those people who knows a little about a lot of different things. This talent comes in handy on the show and allows him to take part in the discussion that can often be too technical for non-investment professionals or industry insiders… and brings it to a level that normal people and dogs can hear. [maxbutton id="1" ]