Steve Ridgeway is a highly respected Certified Public Accountant with fifty-plus years of experience in tax planning, compliance, valuation, and financial advisory work. He is recognized for his deep expertise, thoughtful leadership, and long-standing commitment to client service.

Steve began his career with the Internal Revenue Service in Santa Barbara, where he served as a Revenue Agent from 1972 to 1979. In this role, he conducted income and payroll tax audits for individuals, corporations, and partnerships, ensuring compliance with the Internal Revenue Code. He also contributed to the training and development of new IRS personnel through classroom instruction and on-the-job training.

From 1979 through February 2025, Steve was the senior partner at Ridgeway & Warner, Certified Public Accountants, a respected local CPA firm in Santa Barbara. In February 2025, Ridgeway & Warner merged with SteelPeak Tax Consulting, LLC, where Steve continues to bring his extensive expertise and client-centered approach to the firm. His work includes supervising staff in estate and income tax planning and compliance, representing clients before taxing authorities during audits and appeals, and assisting clients with comprehensive financial planning. His experience also includes expert witness testimony before Superior Court involving income taxes, divorce matters, business valuations, cash flow analysis, and division of community property.

‍

Hobbies & Personal Interests

Outside of his professional life, Steve enjoys an active lifestyle that includes hiking, motorcycle rides, and walking his dogs.  Steve is looking forward to gradually cutting back on his senior partner responsibilities so he can enjoy more time with family and friends.

‍