In Episode #10 & #11 of the CPA Career Paths podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Ben Calingaert, a shareholder at a small tax-focused public accounting firm in Reno, Nevada. Ben’s journey from an economics major to CPA firm partner in just five years is nothing short of inspiring. We met at the AICPA Leadership Academy, where I learned about his unique path and commitment to public accounting. Today, I’m thrilled to share his insights, challenges, and actionable advice for young accounting professionals looking to thrive in the field.
Taking the Long Way: Discovering a Passion for Accounting
Ben’s path to accounting wasn’t linear. Initially an economics major, he switched to social work before dropping out of college altogether. It wasn’t until his future in-laws encouraged him to finish his degree that he considered accounting, influenced by his wife’s career as a CPA.
“When I realized accounting would expose me to a variety of businesses and industries, I knew it was an interesting major that could open countless doors,” Ben shared
It’s never too late to find your passion. If you’re exploring career options, think about fields that combine your interests with long-term growth opportunities.
Gaining Early Experience: Working While Studying
Instead of pursuing internships, Ben worked full-time at his father-in-law’s CPA firm while completing his degree. This hands-on experience allowed him to dive deep into public accounting and develop critical skills early on.
Actionable Advices:
- Look for opportunities to work part-time or full-time in your field while studying. Real-world experience is invaluable.
- Build relationships with mentors who can guide your career and offer honest advice.
Choosing Tax Over Audit: Why Specialization Matters
Ben’s decision to focus on tax instead of audit was influenced by two key factors:
- Tax work allowed him to build stronger advisory relationships with clients.
- The demand for tax expertise in Reno, Nevada, outweighed the need for auditors.
“I saw the lifestyle my father-in-law had and the relationships he built with clients. That’s what drew me to tax,” Ben explained.
Specialization can help you align your career with your interests and the needs of your market. Explore areas within accounting to find your best fit.
Lessons from Leadership Academy: Developing Soft Skills
The AICPA Leadership Academy taught Ben valuable lessons about leadership, including how to motivate and guide teams effectively. Transitioning from staff to senior to manager required him to adjust his leadership style.
“Leadership in accounting is very different from leadership on a sports field. Tough love doesn’t always work in an office environment,” Ben noted.
Actionable Advice:
- Invest in leadership development programs to enhance your people skills.
- Build relationships with team members and lead with empathy.
The CPA Exam Journey: A Marathon, Not a Sprint
Ben waited several years before tackling the CPA exam, passing all four sections in just six weeks with a strategic approach.
Ben’s Tips for CPA Exam Success:
- Take practice exams to identify weak areas and focus your study time.
- Use high-quality prep materials, like Becker’s CPA review courses.
- Start studying as soon as possible after college to maintain your study habits.
“I wouldn’t recommend my six-week approach to anyone else,” Ben joked, “but I’m glad I got through it!”
Balancing Work, School, and Life: The MST Decision
Despite being a CPA and partner, Ben decided to pursue a Master’s in Taxation to deepen his expertise.
“I want to keep getting better at my job,” Ben said. “The MST program will fill gaps in my knowledge and make me more valuable to my clients.”
Actionable Advice:
- Choose advanced degrees based on your career focus. An MST is great for tax professionals, while an MBA might suit those in advisory or management roles.
- Look for programs designed for working professionals, like Cal State Northridge’s MST, which accommodates busy schedules.
Overcoming Challenges: From Imposter Syndrome to Organization
Ben’s journey wasn’t without hurdles. He faced imposter syndrome transitioning from senior to manager and struggled with organization early in his career.
Ben’s Solutions:
- Seek feedback from mentors and colleagues to build confidence in your skills.
- Develop organizational systems to manage client information and meet deadlines.
- Embrace mistakes as learning opportunities.
The Value of Community Involvement
As a partner, Ben takes pride in giving back. From mentoring students to serving on nonprofit boards, he’s passionate about promoting the accounting profession and supporting his community.
Community involvement not only enriches your career but also strengthens your firm’s reputation. Find causes you care about and get involved.
Advice for New Graduates
Ben’s top advice for recent graduates and young professionals:
- Be patient with yourself. The first year in accounting is challenging, but growth takes time.
- Build relationships with mentors who can guide your career.
- Explore different areas within accounting to find your niche.
“How you perform in your first year doesn’t determine your entire career,” Ben emphasized. “Focus on learning and developing your skills.”
Ben Calingaert’s story reminds us that there’s no one-size-fits-all path to success in accounting. Whether you’re just starting out or considering a career pivot, his insights offer valuable guidance for navigating the challenges and opportunities in the field.
If you’re ready to take your CPA career to the next level, Subscribe to my monthly newsletter for tips, advice, and exclusive content from inspiring professionals like Ben. Let’s master the CPA journey together!