Building a support system is a core tenant for finding success in most professions. Having the ability to trade ideas and expertise with others working in the accounting space provides opportunities for growth and learning that might otherwise be overlooked. Many CPAs will build such a network as they work in firms alongside other accounting professionals, but for those working in the corporate finance space as the CFO, controller or CPA on staff, building a network that includes other finance professionals can be challenging. There may only be one or two other CPAs in the entire organization, which might feel isolating for some.
For those seeking connection, the large network of CPAs that comprises the MICPA not only serves as our foundation, but is also one of our greatest resources. While the MICPA is consistently striving to create value for its members through a variety of programs and services, providing networking opportunities is among one of our association’s key functions. According to MICPA member Sarah Mather, CPA, senior grants analyst, The Mott Foundation, attending the association’s learning and networking events is a professional breath of fresh air. “When you’re able to go network with other CPAs, you’re among your own,” she says. “Even if you’re not discussing anything specific, it’s great having another CPA in your world.”
This fall, we are encouraging our members to leverage this network of peers, their fellow MICPA members, to build that foundation of professional support. Join us at one or both of our upcoming events in November, Accelerate and Behind the Scenes.
Accelerate Nov. 9, 1 - 5 p.m.
Our first November event, Accelerate, is a conference focused on personal and professional development in our post-pandemic world. This event is designed for any professional seeking to take their leadership skills to the next level.
Keynote speakers include Jina Etienne, CPA and consultant, who will speak on navigating uncomfortable professional conversations and how to advance diversity and inclusion efforts. Other speakers will focus on creating a positive workspace, maximizing potential in a hybrid work setting and mastering productive communication techniques. Members will be able to choose between attending live at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi or online via simulcast.
Behind the Scenes: Nov. 15
The week following Accelerate, the MICPA will head to Grand Rapids for Corporate Finance: Behind The Scenes at Viking Products, Inc. This free event is a chance for MICPA members to mingle and network as they enjoy a tour of the Viking Products facility while learning about the efficiency upgrades the company has implemented to streamline their accounting processes. Better yet, the event also provides one hour of CPE.
We look forward to seeing you in November and hope that these opportunities will serve as a lodestone for a sturdier support system. After all, connecting CPAs to each other makes your organization – and our profession – stronger!