David Williams: Financial Literacy Surprise, AZ expert providing retirement strategies

An Arizona Native’s Mission to Protect the American Dream

Rigel Financial was born from a simple realization: the American Dream shouldn’t be a struggle to maintain. I’m David Williams, an Arizona native with deep roots in this state—from my college days in Flagstaff at NAU to the eight years I spent in Prescott, and now, calling Surprise, AZ home.


The Reality of the Journey:

For 28 years, I served in Arizona cities and counties. I worked hard, but like many families, I knew the stress of living paycheck to paycheck. I remember the grit it took to pick up second jobs delivering pizzas just to ensure my family was provided for. I saw my colleagues retire after decades of service, only to find that their ASRS pension wasn’t the “finish line” they were promised. Between unexpected medical bills and the rising cost of living, I watched too many people see their American Dream slip away just as they reached it.


The Turning Point:

My mission became personal when my wife became disabled over 20 years ago. It taught me that a financial plan isn’t just about “numbers”, it’s about protection. I realized that if something happened to me, the “old way” of doing things wouldn’t be enough to support her. I knew there had to be a better path.
When I discovered WealthWave, I found the “Flight Plan” I had been looking for. Just like in aviation—a passion I’ve recently returned to, you don’t take off without knowing your destination and your fuel levels. I learned that by making small, intentional changes to how we view money, compounding, and insurance, we can build a future that is “fail-safe.


Empowering Arizona Families:

Today, I use the 7 Money Milestones to help families across the Valley and beyond. Whether you are a service member at Luke Air Force Base, an engineer at TSMC or Intel, or a teacher in the ASRS system, you deserve a strategist who has been in your shoes.
I am especially passionate about our e2E (Educated to Empowered) initiative. We focus on empowering women in their financial futures, ensuring they have the tools and education to lead their families with confidence and independence.


Arizona sunrise over a Cessna 172 wing—David Williams, 4th generation Arizona pilot and financial strategist.

Life Outside the Office:

When I’m not helping families secure their legacy, you’ll find me in the skies over Arizona or capturing the Arizona night sky through my telescope. Aviation is in my blood, I am part of a long line of aviators, and I’m incredibly proud to see my son now learning to fly. He represents the 5th generation of pilots in our family and the 4th generation of Arizona pilots. Whether I’m flying to Payson for breakfast with fellow enthusiasts or riding my motorcycle through Skull Valley to Prescott, I am always reminded that the freedom to enjoy these moments is what a solid financial flight plan is all about.


The American Dream belongs to you. Let’s build the flight plan to get you there.