About Puget Sound Investment Strategies

Our Firm

Puget Sound Investment Strategies Inc. has been helping people throughout Washington reach toward their retirement goals since 1985.

Meet Michael Carlton

Michael Carlton, president of Puget Sound Investment Strategies Inc., uses his more than 30 years of experience in asset management to pursue his business goal of providing clients with the same level of service he would want for himself or his own parents.

Michael’s interest in financial services was piqued as a child observing his father, a financial professional, with his own clients. He says his father’s enjoyment of helping clients establish, invest and protect their retirement assets for future income needs was tangible.

Although Michael’s father never pushed his son to follow in his footsteps, Michael attended George Fox College in Newburg, Oregon, majoring in business, partly because helping others was so central to his childhood memories.

Since breaking into the industry, Michael has continued his education, earning life, long-term care and health insurance licenses in Washington, Oregon and Arizona; and passing the Series 6, 63 and 7 securities licensing exams. Michael routinely conducts seminars on a wide range of financial topics and has earned the excellence award from one of the biggest financial marketing organizations, Advisors Excel, for eight years.

While much of Michael’s time is devoted to his work at Puget Sound Investment Strategies, working with clients to help them increase their confidence in retirement, he is also active in building a legacy outside of work. He is involved in NW Church, is president of the Arlington High School Booster Club and is a member of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors.

Michael enjoys his free time at home in Seattle, taking in a round of golf, watching the Seattle Mariners or Seahawks and spending time with his daughter, Kailey.

Meet Julie Nicholson

As the vice president of operations and client services specialist at Puget Sound Investment Strategies, Julie Nicholson focuses her time and energy on delivering excellent client services, including organizing all client events, account processing and service requests.

Julie began working with Puget Sound Investment Strategies in 2011. She has completed certificate courses in business and marketing, and completed licensing courses for life, disability and annuity insurance. Prior to joining the financial services industry, Julie served as a youth pastor for 14 years after earning a degree in Christian ministry with an emphasis in youth ministry.

Julie met Tom Carlton, founder of Puget Sound Investment Strategies, when he came to her church to present a financial seminar. At the time, Julie was looking to transition into business, and Tom offered a wonderful opportunity for her to learn from him. She was particularly moved by how much heart Tom has for his clients. It’s a distinct quality Julie also holds. The ability to directly help others in such an impactful way appealed to her, and she eagerly agreed to join the firm.

Residing in Arlington, Washington, Julie continues to serve the local youth through her church. She loves spending time with her husband of 30 years, Norman, and their three beautiful girls, as well as her grandson and newborn granddaughter. Together, Julie and Norman enjoy riding quads, glamping (camping in a fifth wheel), road trips, traveling and quiet times sitting on their back patio. Julie also finds continuing education exciting and is always looking for something new to learn.

To schedule a time to discuss your financial future and the possible role of insurance in your financial strategy, contact us at Mike@pugetsoundis.com or call us at 425-770-1302 today!