KyCPA member spotlights
Issue 1
February 12, 2020
Say hello to David Roberts, CPA, he is the assistant financial controller for the Mulzer Crushed Stone, Inc., a CRH Company. He lives in Owensboro, where he graduated from Brescia University in 2010.
"I finally ended my CPA procrastination in 2019 when I passed all four parts in three months while working. My wife, Michelle, works as a Nurse Anesthetist at our regional hospital, and we have two daughters ages two and under. There are no dull moments in our household."
What influenced your decision to become a CPA?
Initially, it was a professor who saw potential in me that I didn’t see in myself. After switching my major and taking a few accounting classes, becoming a CPA became my goal. It was important to me to be involved in something that could influence business and had a strong reputation for being outstanding members of the community. The CPA designation certainly offers that, and more.
What's the best aspect of your job?
The best aspect of my job is the variety I am exposed to. Whether it be job assignments, people or places to visit, there is always something different going on professionally that keeps the day moving. It provides unlimited opportunities to learn and grow both as a person and in my career.
Being a CPA, what opportunities did this career path open for you?
Where I was employed at the time, it was not possible for further promotion without my CPA, so it allowed me upward mobility. Attaining the CPA designation opened the opportunity for my current position. Beyond the career opportunities that were offered almost immediately upon passing, it gave me confidence to make decisions I may have hesitated to make prior to having CPA behind my name.
How has the KyCPA committee that you have served on influenced the profession?
I serve on the Accounting Career Opportunities (ACO) committee, and could speak to this all day. We are currently influencing the future of the profession by providing guidance to the next generation of Kentucky CPAs. If it involves promoting the CPA designation, educating or mentoring students and young professionals, you can bet the ACO committee is at the forefront. It has had a tremendous influence on me, and been very humbling to see a group of individuals who genuinely care for people and the profession.
How has being a KyCPA committee member helped you make a difference?
It has given me an avenue to pass along my experiences and share advice. It has allowed me to be a part of something special, and granted me the opportunity to help others reach their goals. Most of all, it has helped me make a difference in my own life and career, by offering me a chance to pursue my passion for assisting others in our profession and our great state.
How has your committee involvement improved your networking contacts?
As simple as this seems, I am able to attend events and CPE, and get out of my bubble of people that attend with me. It has provided me with mentors, and people I can go to for advice in different areas of the trade. I have the ability to attend different schools and meet new people and learn and share. It is a very fulfilling experience.
Any advice to students working towards becoming a CPA or new CPAs?
For new CPAs, I would say engage in your community by serving on a board and with KyCPA via committees. You are needed and the experiences will reward you beyond your expectations. For those working towards your CPA, the best advice I have is learning to say no and set expectations with work, friends and family. It will be difficult at first, but once everyone sees your dedication, they will be your biggest advocates and supporters to push you through the finish line. We are all rooting for your success.
