As a leader of the Society, what changes do you think present INCPAS with the biggest challenges? How have you worked to influence turning those challenges into opportunities?

“The challenges facing INCPAS as an organization are similar to those facing our members, including recruitment and retention. Firms are working to hire and ensure a sufficient pipeline for the profession, which directly relates to INCPAS membership numbers. A decline in CPAs correlates to a decline in membership. As we work hard to support the profession with our workforce development efforts, it will also assist with bringing in more members.

Another challenge is technology advancement. Just as our members invest in technology, develop AI protocol and find how to effectively leverage advancements, we also must keep pace at INCPAS. Having a technology game plan is critical and we are currently on a multi-year journey of our own technology enhancements.”

Kyle A. Simmerman, CPA
INCPAS Chair
BGBC, a Springline Company

“The staffing shortage remains a top challenge. Not as many students are pursuing accounting degrees, and the 150-hour requirement is an incredible barrier. Along with this, attracting and retaining young talent is difficult. INCPAS is focused on workforce development by collaboration with other profession partners who can help reach additional populations through targeted programs and scholarships. INCPAS also speaks at local high schools to dispel myths about what accounting is and isn’t, presenting a more favorable view of the accounting profession.”

Lisa D. Tressler, CPA
INCPAS Chair-Elect
RBSK Partners PC

“The ever-changing regulatory landscape. These regulatory changes influence our members and their business decisions, as well as how our members advise their clients and customers. As a member of the board, I have been able to share my thoughts to help influence regulatory change discussions that INCPAS has chosen to comment on. Being involved in these discussions has helped me understand the reasoning behind the changes. By understanding the ‘how’ and ‘why’ of these changes, in addition to the ‘what,’ I am more informed on the process and the change. Change always brings opportunity!”

Jacob T. Buehler, CPA
INCPAS Vice Chair
Dauby O’Connor & Zaleski, LLC

“The board is focused on workforce development issues, including potential barriers to entry for the profession, and has played a role in addressing these barriers through legislation. However, the challenge of attracting more individuals to the profession remains. INCPAS is working to inform high school and college students about all its opportunities, but as professionals we also have a responsibility to tell our story and to promote the profession. The accounting profession and opportunities within have changed dramatically in recent years, but the perception of our profession has not. We can change this together.”

Corbin L. Miller, CPA, CGMA
INCPAS Vice Chair
Insight Accounting Group, PC

“Navigating the talent shortage while ensuring a strong, inclusive CPA pipeline. Barriers to entry, slow technology adoption and competition from other finance careers make attracting and retaining talent difficult. I dedicate significant time to INCPAS, NABA Inc. and civic organizations like Junior Achievement and the Strada Foundation for advocacy as well as engagement with students and young professionals. Using my career path and platform to elevate the profession’s opportunities is an example of how to affect change. Individual service, combined with INCPAS’ efforts, can address profession challenges and strengthen the pipeline.”

E. ZeNai Savage, CPA
INCPAS Vice Chair
Indy Chamber