The Future of Accounting is Bright, Here’s Why

Last month, I attended 普华永道 's second annual Destination CPA program, a three-day immersive experience for nearly 1,200 future CPAs who have an internship offer with our firm. It was an incredible chance to connect with these talented individuals, learn from their diverse perspectives and share some of the opportunities ahead for our profession.

Destination CPA is one of the ways we are empowering and inspiring the next generation of accountants. I was blown away by their energy, enthusiasm and curiosity, and my time with these aspiring professionals reaffirmed many of the reasons why the future of accounting is bright.

#1: Accounting is a dynamic and creative profession that’s constantly evolving?

One of the common misconceptions about accounting is that it's all about crunching numbers. In reality, accounting is a dynamic and creative profession that relies on critical thinking, problem-solving, communication and collaboration. The future CPAs that I met at Destination CPA understood that accountants are innovators using technology and teamwork to solve complex issues.

They were excited about the different career paths and opportunities that accounting can offer. They were intrigued by the ways they can use their unique skills, interests and backgrounds to drive impact for both companies and communities. They were also excited to hear how they can stay adaptable in a rapidly changing world – as the language of business, a career in accounting can help professionals do just that.

#2: Accounting is a team sport that’s all about relationships?

Another thing that impressed me about the attendees was their collaborative and inclusive spirit. While they all came from different backgrounds, they were able to quickly bond. Accounting is a team sport, and we know that at our firm and in our profession, our greatest strength is our people when they come together.

Today’s accountants work in teams and with their clients to solve complex problems for organizations of every size, across all different industries. At the end of the day, accounting is a people business – you spend more time with people than with a calculator.

#3: Accountants deliver purpose-driven impact?

CPAs are our capital market’s seekers of truth – building trust, providing confidence and strengthening our financial systems. Accountants also help organizations address important issues like sustainability, equity and inclusion, and digital transformation.

During Destination CPA, we discussed the many ways we can bring our personal purpose into our work. Employees want personalization and meaningful work, and today’s leaders know that a one-size-fits-all approach won’t cut it. The future of accounting is full of countless opportunities to match everyone’s unique interests and having a CPA license can open a variety of career paths – from serving as an accountant to working as an entrepreneur or lawyer, just to name a few options.

I'm so grateful that I was able to be part of this year’s Destination CPA event and that I got the chance to see what the future of the profession is shaping up to look like. Thank you to all the attendees, organizers, speakers, facilitators and volunteers who made it possible.

I invite anyone who is curious about accounting, or who is looking for a rewarding and fulfilling career, to learn more about why becoming a CPA could be the right choice for you!