Accounting Firm Transformation

“Reducing Hours” Won By a Landslide (And Other AICPA Engage Insights)

Shannon Vincent
June 28, 2025
2
minute read

Key Themes from AICPA Engage

I attended AICPA Engage recently and thought I would share a few take aways. What was the theme of the conference?

The two terms heard everywhere? PE (Private Equity) and AI (Artificial Intelligence).

If I had a nickel for every mention, I’d be rich.

Private Equity: Polarizing but Powerful

PE is polarizing, similar to many things in American culture. Some firms fiercely want independence, while others see PE investment in the accounting industry as beneficial.

  • PE has brought liquidity to an industry that historically had none.
  • Some consolidators have been mislabeled as PE when in fact the capital partner is a family office or private fund.
  • Different capital sources = different return expectations and timelines.

Bottom line: Capital source matters. Unpack where the money is coming from before making assumptions.

AI and Tech Overload

Holy guacamole—massive tech overload.

  • The exhibit hall was packed with new apps, categories, and players.
  • Startup booths at Engage aren’t cheap—millions are being poured into accounting tech.
  • Many tools overlap, creating “app creep.”

Key takeaway: Don’t fall prey to shiny new tool syndrome or AI FOMO. Build a clear tech plan, or you’ll waste time, money, and energy.


The CEO’s Keynote: The More Things Change...

From AICPA’s new CEO Mark Koziel:

  • Regulatory changes, technology, staffing issues, and business model transformation remain top priorities.
  • The CPA brand must be protected.
  • Talent pipeline and retention are still the profession’s biggest issues.

Why Reducing Hours Matters Most

AICPA polling showed that by 2040, reducing work hours was the top priority for accountants—by a landslide.

  • Overworking burns out top talent.
  • Renew firms have proven: cut hours, and people stay.
  • To achieve this, firms need to transform business models with better pricing, clear service definitions, and ideal client targeting.


Looking Ahead

Like the past and like it will be in the future, the profession is at a crossroads.  The more things change, the more they stay the same.


In summary, it is a great conference to attend. It gets one thinking.


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