CPA Technology Conference - A Virtual Event
Online
8.00 Credits
Member Price $245.00
Price will increase by $45 after 3/31
Non-Member Price $310.00
Price will increase by $45 after 3/31
Overview
There is little doubt that we are in the midst of unpresented transformation in the services we provide as CPAs and CFOs and the way we deliver them. Technology, of course, is at the core of this transformation. Therefore, it is imperative that you place emphasis on learning about current and emerging technologies that can empower you to be more productive, profitable, and most importantly today, innovative in your service delivery.
This conference is designed to inform you of how to take advantage of today's technology tools such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and digital communications to compete in this rapidly evolving environment and grow your business and your professional skills.
Prerequisites
Designed For
Any CPA, CFO or Financial professional who wants to reinforce their professional skills and knowledge in the field of information technology to remain relevant and increase market value.
Objectives
• Identify technology capabilities to pursue in the next 12 months based on impact and feasibility.
• Analyze and communicate data more effectively using modern approaches.
• Compare three top generative AI platforms across accuracy, data protection, integration, extensibility, and cost.
• Identify specific and practical opportunities to optimize your Microsoft 365 ROI.
• Analyze real life case studies to determine how firms have successfully implemented AI to improve marketing outcomes.
Notice
Tuesday, June 30
General Session
- 2026 Technology Update: Emerging Trends That Matter
The event will kick-off with a macro level review of the rapidly evolving technology landscape presented by nationally recognized CPA technology advisor, John Higgins, CPA.CITP. We will delve into the pivotal technology trends reshaping accounting and tax services. We will review an array of technologies including cloud computing, big data and data analytics, Artificial Intelligence (AI), blockchain technology and digital assets, financial / ERP software, audit and tax software.
This session is available to registrants only.
General Session
- From Numbers to Narratives: Mastering Data Analysis for CPAs
In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, accounting professionals are expected to be more than just number crunchers; they must also serve as insightful interpreters of data. In an era where data is king, this session is your gateway to becoming a savvy data analyst with a competitive edge in your field. This session will guide you through the intricacies of making complex data analysis approachable and engaging. You will learn the all-important data analysis process flow that will take you from collecting data to making insightful decisions. It’s not just about learning a tool – it’s about enhancing your professional identity as a forward-thinking accounting professional.
This session is available to registrants only.
General Session
- ChatGPT / Google Gemini / Microsoft 365 Copilot Shootout
As we enter the fourth year of the generative AI revolution, we must get more focused on selecting the AI applications to provide the foundation for our application of artificial intelligence. The options are vast, however, there are a few clear leaders in the space. This session will provide an interactive comparison of three of the leading solutions; ChatGPT, Google Gemini and Microsoft 365 Copilot. We will compare these three power tools to help you in your decision-making process. Whether already have established your solution, this session will also help you to better understand the full range of generative AI capabilities.
This session is available to registrants only.
General Session
- AI Powered Excel: Transforming Workflows with Microsoft Copilot & ChatGPT
This session provides a comprehensive overview of how Microsoft Copilot & ChatGPT transform traditional Excel workflows into dynamic, AI-driven processes, enabling you to accomplish tasks faster, more accurately, and with less manual effort. Whether you’re a seasoned Excel user or just beginning your journey, this session will guide you through practical applications and best practices to make the most of Copilot’s & ChatGPT’s capabilities. Through hands-on demonstrations you will see how each of these AI tools can save time, improve decision-making, and elevate your analytical skills to new heights.
This session is available to registrants only.
General Session
- Microsoft 365: Supercharging CPA Productivity
Microsoft 365 is one of the most underutilized software solutions across all organizations. This session will show you how to unlock the full potential of Microsoft 365. Dive deep into the hidden gems of Microsoft 365 that can elevate your productivity and streamline your processes. Learn practical tips and innovative strategies to leverage the suite’s powerful tools more effectively. Whether you’re looking to enhance collaboration or optimize task management, this session will equip you with the knowledge to transform your workflows.
This session is available to registrants only.
General Session
- AI-Enabled Marketing Strategy for Firms
This presentation introduces accounting and professional services firms to the practical, high impact ways artificial intelligence (AI) can strengthen and scale their marketing strategy. Participants will learn how AI technologies support content creation, client targeting, campaign optimization, and analytics—while maintaining brand integrity and compliance. Through demonstrations, frameworks, and real world examples, the session provides a clear roadmap for integrating AI into existing marketing workflows to improve efficiency, consistency, and measurable results.
This session is available to registrants only.
Leader(s):
Leader Bios
Bryan Smith
Bryan is the owner of DataSmith Pro, LLC, a company that helps accounting, tax and financial professionals leverage technology to increase the quality and efficiency of their services.
Bryan has extensive knowledge and experience in proper Excel design techniques as well as helping CPAs build spreadsheets that are accurate. As a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), he has spent a considerable amount of time auditing and validating thousands of Excel spreadsheets. He has developed various data analysis and Microsoft Power BI courses and has worked with multiple organizations to train and coach staff on proper data analysis techniques.
Bryan holds a Master of Science in Information Assurance, is a member of the Information System Audit and Control Association and is a past chair of task forces for the Michigan Association of CPAs.
Gaynor Meilke
Gaynor Meilke is a business strategist and certified business and transformational coach. She is the owner of Charisma Ink, a marketing and B2B consulting firm that specializes in personal branding, partnerships, and digital marketing services for accounting and tax professionals. She is a ghostwriter and the author of multiple books, including Avoiding App-athy: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Winning More Sales and Customer Advocates in the Accounting Channel, The Bank Your Brain Blueprint™, and The Market Ownership Method which are available on Amazon.
John Higgins, Strategic Advisor, Higgins Advisory LLC
As a seasoned entrepreneur, John Higgins, founder and CEO of Higgins Advisory LLC, has experience with local CPA firms and as well as serving as a technology advisory practice leader partner in a national CPA firm. John founded, managed and grew two separate accounting technology advisory firms, both of which were successfully acquired by larger organizations.
John shares his expertise as a nationally recognized thought leader, strategic advisor, and speaker on accounting technology through coaching and speaking engagements. His primary contribution is his passion for helping the profession move forward through the understanding and adoption of emerging technologies.
Qualifications and Experience:- Actively involved in working with local, regional and national CPA firms over the past 25 years in the implementation of technology to automate business processes.
- Awarded for being one of the Top 25 Thought Leaders in the accounting profession by The CPA Practice Advisor (www.cpapracticeadvisor.com) in 2011, 2012 and 2013.
- Co-author of "10 Steps to a Digital Practice in the Cloud," published by the American Institute of CPAs.
- Facilitated hundreds of planning sessions and retreats to develop strategic plans, technology plans, workflow design, innovative client services and more.
- Nationally recognized speaker and author on technology issues affecting the CPA profession, with an emphasis on transforming to a digital practice model.
- Author of the annual Document Management Software Review for the CPA Practice Advisor magazine.
- Former national consulting partner with a top 10 CPA firm.
- Member of the AICPA Business & Industry Hall of Fame.
- Past Chair of the Michigan Association of CPAs.
- Past member of the AICPA Council and CPE Advisory Committee.
- MACPA Innovative User of Technology award recipient.
Non-Member Price $310.00
Member Price $245.00