A CPA’s AICPA Leadership Program experience

By Rebecca Kerr, OSCPA communications intern

Andrew Somich, CPA, knew to expect an extraordinary experience upon his acceptance into the AICPA Leadership Academy. What he didn’t know, however, was the lasting impact the program would have on him both personally and professionally.

Somich said he went into the four-day program in Durham, N.C., with an open mind. He met with 40 young professionals in a welcoming environment for rich, open discussions and self-discovery.

“It gave me more tools to become the leader that I would like to be: more proactive than reactive,” Somich said. When it comes to leadership, he said “you can’t just sit back and take everything in; you have to actually go out and do things.”

As he continuously works on incorporating his newfound knowledge and leadership skills at Rea & Associates, where he is a tax and business consultant, he said the key takeaway from his experience is evolution and improvement.

“We need to continue to improve and adapt, especially with the changes in our profession,” he said. “We need to be ahead of the curve and always thinking of ways we can better serve our clients and also our firm.”

When asked whether he’d recommend that others consider participating in the AICPA Leadership Academy in the future, Somich said, “Do it and apply sooner than later.”

The academy’s alumni group, Somich added, also is a great resource. Past participants of the program network and share how their experience in the AICPA Leadership Academy has impacted them.

For now, Somich said his experience has given him momentum to reach his goal of becoming an innovative leader in the accounting profession.