I recently had the pleasure of hosting Shakor Jukes, CPA, on Episodes #27 and #28 of the CPA Career Paths Podcast. Shakor’s story is not only inspiring but also packed with practical advice for young accounting professionals navigating their own paths. From his early introduction to accounting in high school to his current role as a Senior Program Manager at Amazon, Shakor has truly embraced the journey—failures, triumphs, and all.
If you’re curious about carving out your own CPA career path or looking for a fresh perspective, Shakor’s story offers a roadmap full of lessons.
Discovering Accounting: A Journey That Began in High School
Shakor’s interest in accounting was sparked during his time at a vocational high school, where he pursued accounting as his trade.
“Accounting chose me; I didn’t choose accounting,” he shared.
His high school experience included college-level accounting courses, setting a strong foundation before he even stepped into college. Unlike many students who struggle to decide on a major, Shakor entered college with a clear direction, thanks to his early exposure.
Key takeaway: Early exposure to accounting can set a solid foundation, but it’s never too late to discover your passion for the profession.
Navigating the Challenges of Starting a Career
Like many young professionals, Shakor faced challenges securing opportunities post-college. Balancing life as a collegiate athlete left little room for internships, making job hunting after graduation more difficult. To bridge this gap, he pursued an MBA and leaned heavily on mentorship and networking through organizations like the AICPA and NABA (National Association of Black Accountants).
“I didn’t have opportunities coming out of college, but I made connections through professional organizations that opened doors.”
Shakor’s advice:
- Build relationships with mentors early.
- Join professional organizations to expand your network.
- Be persistent in seeking opportunities—even if it means taking an unconventional route, like graduate school.
From Public to Private Accounting: The Power of Flexibility
Shakor began his career in private accounting, working at a small retail company, before pivoting to public accounting to gain broader experience and earn his CPA license. His journey from private to public accounting, and eventually to Amazon, demonstrates the importance of flexibility and a willingness to pivot.
“Your interests evolve, and that’s okay. Don’t be afraid to pivot if something no longer aligns with your goals.”
What he learned:
- Public accounting offers a wide range of experiences, from working with diverse clients to honing technical skills.
- Private accounting allows for a deeper dive into operational aspects of a single organization.
- Exposure to both worlds enhances your versatility and marketability.
The Grueling CPA Exam: A Test of Perseverance
Shakor’s CPA exam journey was anything but smooth.
“I failed audit five or six times. It’s a tough process, but I knew that becoming a CPA would set me up for life.”
Despite setbacks, he remained determined, emphasizing the long-term value of the CPA designation. He highlighted the importance of having a plan, managing time effectively, and embracing failure as part of the process.
Tips for aspiring CPAs:
- Break down the CPA exam into manageable pieces.
- Use failures as motivation rather than setbacks.
- Invest in your future; the designation is worth the sacrifice.
Finding Purpose Beyond the Job: Teaching and Entrepreneurship
In addition to his role at Amazon, Shakor is an adjunct professor teaching introductory accounting courses. He also runs a small CPA firm, where he helps minority-owned businesses navigate their finances.
“Teaching allows me to give back and inspire the next generation of CPAs. Running my firm lets me support small businesses and educate clients on their financial health.”
How he balances it all:
- Time management and prioritization are key.
- Focus on passions that align with your professional skills.
- Leverage technology and automation to maximize efficiency.
Embracing Technology: The Future of Accounting
Shakor’s curiosity about technology led him to teach himself coding and pursue roles focused on automation. At Amazon, he combines his CPA expertise with his knowledge of technology to streamline accounting processes.
“I’m passionate about automation and simplifying accounting workflows. It’s about finding better ways to do things.”
Career insight: Developing technical skills like coding can set you apart and create unique opportunities within the accounting profession.
Volunteering: Building Community and Connections
Shakor credits much of his success to volunteering with organizations like the AICPA.
“Volunteering helped me meet amazing people and build a network that’s been invaluable to my career.”
Why it matters:
- Volunteering broadens your professional network.
- It provides opportunities to give back to the profession and inspire future accountants.
Shakor’s Advice for Aspiring CPAs
When I asked Shakor for his top tips, he offered these nuggets of wisdom:
- Embrace the journey: “Everyone’s path is different. Enjoy the process, even the challenges.”
- Stay flexible: “Your interests will evolve. Be open to exploring new opportunities.”
- Network and volunteer: “Connections can open doors you didn’t know existed.”
- Invest in yourself: “The CPA designation is worth the time and effort. It’s a career-long investment.”
Shakor’s journey highlights the beauty of carving out a unique path. From failing the CPA exam multiple times to leveraging his skills in technology, teaching, and entrepreneurship, Shakor has embraced the possibilities of the CPA profession.
If his story inspired you, subscribe to my monthly newsletter, where I share more insights, tips, and stories to help you master your CPA journey. Let’s continue building the future of accounting together!