Andrew L'Orsa

I became interested in investing at an early age. I remember eagerly awaiting the newspaper to check my mock portfolio and making my first trade at 16. My interest in finance continued and at university I studied economic geography and completed a B.A. with a major in geography and a minor in economics at the University of British Columbia. After university I spent my summers working with the BC Wildfire Service and during the winters I would continue my studies in finance. Despite time away, Smithers was always home to me and in 2009 I made the move back to the Bulkley Valley permanent.

I started a career in financial services because I saw a way to combine my passion for finance with the opportunity to help people. In an industry that values quantity over quality, I look to break the mold and build my relationships around values, integrity and expertise. My goal is to help you build a financial strategy that will serve as a guide as you transition through life. I've seen how people can overlook valuable opportunities – opportunities with RRSPs, with planning for retirement or their estate, or with protecting their family's lifestyle, and I don't want that to happen to you.

So, I'm no stranger to finance, and I'm no stranger to Smithers. Ever since my grandfather's family immigrated from Switzerland and homesteaded here in 1935, my family has called this valley home. Now I'm focused on doing my part to support our community. Currently I am the President at the Smithers Golf & Country Club and a Director for the Driftwood School Restoration Committee. I've entered my son into U5 soccer and can't wait to get back into coaching.

One of the undeniable benefits of living here is the natural beauty, which my wife, Lauren, and I enjoy at every opportunity – campfires by the creek at the old family farm, hiking, skiing, canoeing, a round of golf. And we keep extremely busy with our four-year-old and can't wait for baby No. 2 in October.

Now I want to hear about you, your family, what you value and where you'd like to see yourself in 5/10/15 years. Let's see how we can get you there.