Serving up advice for those working towards a career as a CPA.
September 2024
Clinton Berry, CPA
Financial Analyst, Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline, Inc.
KyCPA member
Why did you decide to become a CPA? If there was a defining moment, tell us about it.
It wasn't until college that I really became aware of the CPA credential and all that it could open up for me career wise in the future. I really desired to push myself to become deeply immersed in whatever field I pursued in college, so when I chose accounting as a career path, I knew that I wanted to be as proficient in the field as possible. I started to attend CPA exam preparedness sessions at Kentucky universities and knew it was something I wanted to do!
What reasons would you provide to encourage others to become a CPA?
I believe there are a plethora of reasons to become a CPA, but I would attest firsthand that becoming a CPA opens up doors and opportunities that really are wide and varied. Plus, you get a well-rounded look into the accounting field just by preparing for the exams, which is a major confidence boost and will help you early on in your career.
What attributes and skills are good to have as a CPA?
For me, attributes and skills that I use every day are organization, time management, prioritization, and the ability to think critically and perform research. These skills not only enhance your ability to make your job easier, but to also best serve your clients and in the private industry I work in, the customer.
What advice would you give to someone wanting to become a CPA?
I would advise you to never give up or let doubt creep into your mind along your journey to becoming a CPA. The challenges we face only make the end result sweeter in the end. I would say that becoming a CPA is an exciting process and to enjoy each moment, even the difficult ones!
What is your day-to-day like in your current position?
Currently, I work 3 days a week from my home and 2 days a week from my office at Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline. I really enjoy the hybrid environment the company I work for provides. The workload fluctuates throughout the year, much like a lot of accounting roles, but I like the ebbs and flows of the position. I usually work 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. each day, and I am thankful for the stability this provides for my family! I will say a constant of the position is definitely my morning coffee!
What is your favorite thing about your current position?
I'd say my favorite thing about my current position is being a part of a great company culture that really emphasizes the value-add of every department and position, and that you can directly see the benefit to the company you are providing as an accountant and CPA!
What are your long-term goals related to your career?
Long-term I look to continue in the industry and company I am currently in. I want to take every opportunity along the way to enhance my skills and abilities as a CPA and to apply that to every part of my job and career!
What are some of your personal hobbies or a fun fact about you that you would like to share?
I am extremely blessed with a wonderful wife and three amazing children. I have 2 young daughters, 6 and 3 years old, and one young son, who just turned 1 in July! I am actually bi-vocational, so I pastor a church in Owensboro, KY! My faith is #1 for me, and I love to serve Jesus Christ with my whole heart. When I have free time, I do like to play tennis at our local club here in Owensboro and I also really enjoy playing drums when I get the chance!
What was the reason you became a KyCPA member?
I actually joined KyCPA as soon as possible and knew it was extremely beneficial to getting me started on the right foot in the accounting field. I saw the potential for networking opportunities, knowledge transfer, seminars and conferences, CPE, and more!
What are the best aspects of being a KyCPA member?
There are several for sure, but I really enjoy getting to connect with other members in our area of western KY and beyond, even if just a few times a year! I think the updates we get in different seminars and conferences really are tailored well to giving us insight into the accounting field here at home in Kentucky and how the CPA landscape will look years to come.