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Seeking my father’s advice, I gave accounting another try and began working as an accounting clerk while pursuing my degree. Despite enjoying the work, I yearned for more challenging problems to solve. During the recession in 2008-2009, job opportunities were scarce, but I stumbled upon an internship in forensic accounting, which piqued my interest. This internship marked the beginning of an eight-year journey with a firm specializing in business valuation, forensic accounting, and economic damages, where I earned several professional designations and honed my sills in solving complex financial problems.
During my tenure with this firm, I earned both my CPA and CFF credentials. The CPA designation is important in expert witness work because it is viewed as the highest standard in the accounting profession and is well-respected by the public, attorneys, and judges. Once I earned my CPA designation, I had my eyes set on earning the CFF credential, which sets me apart as an expert witness in many forensic accounting areas, including litigation support and investigative services. These credentials have had a significant impact on my career journey, allowing me to be recognized as an expert witness, providing opportunities to work on litigation cases, and providing me education, networking, and professional guidance.
After leaving the forensic accounting firm, I briefly ventured into the emerging cannabis industry before joining a large local public accounting firm, in the Forensic Accounting/Litigation department, where I ultimately earned my ABV designation. Earning the ABV credential allows me to testify as an expert witness on business valuation and lost profit calculations, while having access to excellent training, professional guidance, and networking opportunities through resources provided by AICPA.
In 2021, I took the leap and founded my own forensic accounting firm. Being a business owner has presented its own unique challenges; however, I have learned more than I could have imagined. This experience has allowed me to have a deeper understanding of business (in general) and has allowed me to connect with clients and business owners in a way in which we really relate to each other. I have had the opportunity to leverage the knowledge, experience, and training that is offered through my various credentials (including CPA, CFF, and ABV) to grow my practice and become a trusted consultant and expert witness.
There are always going to be challenges but I’ve been able to navigate the challenges of running a firm by brainstorming and thinking outside the box, working diligently with my team, and having meaningful conversations with colleagues, many of whom I’ve met through networking events or professional committees, such as the AICPA FVS Committee.
My career journey has been filled with twists and turns, each teaching me valuable lessons and reinforcing my love for this career. I am passionate about solving complex financial problems, helping clients, and sharing my knowledge with others. Currently, I am training future forensic accounting superstars and teaching a Fraud Examination course at a local university, where I connect students with career opportunities in forensic accounting. I love my career! I believe that life is about the journey and each experience has contributed to my growth and success in this field.