Accounting Firm Transformation

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

Shannon Vincent
June 28, 2025
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2
minute read

Key Themes from AICPA Engage

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

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

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

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Private Equity: Polarizing but Powerful

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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.

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

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AI and Tech Overload

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Holy guacamole—massive tech overload.

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  • 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.”
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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...
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From AICPA’s new CEO Mark Koziel:
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  • 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.
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Why Reducing Hours Matters Most

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

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  • 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

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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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