Groundbreaking MACPA program provides new CPAs with 'Orientation to the Profession'

It's been rough sailing for CPAs recently, but the Maryland Association of CPAs is taking the lead in calming the waters, especially for new entries to the profession.

The MACPA's latest effort came on Dec. 16, when it held its first "Orientation to the CPA Profession" in Columbia. The groundbreaking program was designed to orient incoming MACPA members to the profession by providing them with information on regulators, standard setters, current events, strategic and career planning, and how the MACPA fits into all of these areas.

"This program is rooted in requests from the managing partners of leading Maryland CPA firms," said MACPA Executive Director Tom Hood. "They wanted a program that would teach new CPAs how to become involved in their profession and what they can do to keep it strong."

Lots of information, lots of fun

That's exactly what Hood and the MACPA staff set out to deliver. Nearly 100 new or aspiring CPAs in attendance were provided with the latest information about the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and other current issues facing the profession. They also received an in-service on strategic planning and learned how to develop a personal and professional vision plan.

There was plenty of fun to go around as well. Attendees brushed up on their professional knowledge during a Q&A session about regulators that was based on the popular game "Cranium." They also were broken up into teams and accumulated points for participating in the day's events, with prizes awarded throughout the day.

"It was really a lot of fun," said Carol Kirwan, the MACPA's director of technical services and regulatory affairs who helped facilitate the program. "I enjoyed seeing the candidates and new CPAs become so interested in their profession. I was surprised at how much some of them already knew and was thrilled at their participation."

Rave reviews

Judging from the participants' comments, the program was an overwhelming success. Attendees raved about the "informative, thought-provoking and entertaining" overview of the profession they received.

"There was a lot of involvement from your staff and a lot of energy in the room," Peter Laanisto of Reznick, Fedder & Silverman told Hood after the program. "After taking this program, I am truly honored to be a part of your wonderful organization. Like you, I am very proud to be a CPA and your organization personifies the reason why."

Praise for the program has come from the profession's national leaders as well.

"This program is right on the mark," AICPA Chair Bill Ezzell said during a recent visit to Maryland. "Introducing new CPAs to what the profession is about and how it's regulated, to help them understand their role and how they can be a part of the profession — I think that training is absolutely necessary and something we've been missing for far too long."

Overwhelmingly positive feedback from the December pilot has prompted the MACPA to schedule a second "Orientation to the CPA Profession" program for May. Details about that program will be announced shortly. The program eventually could become a regular part of the MACPA's schedule.