A Distinct Approach to Professional Development

By Monette Anderson, CAE

image: © iStock/PeopleImages

As a member of the WSCPA, you have access to a suite of exclusive content—the Member Exclusive CPE Series—that is crafted not just to meet your continuing professional education (CPE) needs, but also to enrich both your personal and professional development. While many organizations fulfill free CPE supported by sponsored content, the WSCPA takes a different approach.

Why Settle for Just Checking the Box  

We believe in the transformative power of education. Continuing from the series’ success last year, the courses in this series are not just informative; they're designed to inspire and empower. Members who have taken the series have shared overwhelmingly positive feedback, underscoring our commitment to courses that genuinely enhance personal growth and professional excellence—free from commercial interruptions.  

Past Member Exclusive participant Courtney Hirata said, “The content is so relevant and engaging that I find myself not only giving my full attention, but also taking notes, participating in the chat, and having action steps and takeaways that I apply afterward, each and every time.”

Our educational offerings are specifically designed to support your career and personal well-being. They focus on cultivating leadership skills, providing the latest essential professional updates, fostering holistic development, and celebrating our vibrant membership community. Join us on a journey that truly enriches your professional path and deepens your connection with peers.

Member Exclusive Recap: Moments of Inspiration and Growth 

Last year’s Member Exclusive Series demonstrates the WSCPA’s desire to offer CPE to nurture and inspire the personal and professional growth of members. Here’s a glimpse of how these courses—which garnered stellar ratings of 4.76 out of 5—have impacted your peers:

• Mental Health and Burnout: "This is one of the best presentations I have seen on mental health, burnout, work-life balance, self-care and resilience. It helps us build better margin into our lives and continue doing what we love." 
• Spring into Organization: "Loved this presentation so much. I will be sharing it with my employees! It's about managing something simple that is often overlooked." 
• Year-End Update: The State of the Profession: "Learned some valuable info today that I did not expect. Thank you!" 
• How Inclusive Meetings Can Help Your Organization Succeed: "Appreciated the webinar on ensuring everyone has a chance to contribute. It’s sometimes forgotten in our field." 
• Managing Employee Benefit Plan Audit Risks: Insights from Camico: "It was like a mentoring session with a much more experienced senior partner. Extremely valuable."

What’s Next: This Year’s Can’t-Miss Events 

The 2024-2025 Member Exclusive CPE Series kicked off with three hours from the WSCPA Annual Meeting (held June 12), including an update on the state of the profession and a session with local sports broadcaster for the Seattle Mariners and Seahawks, Jen Mueller. Here are some other highlights to look forward to:  

• Tax Developments:  
  Started with Mark Hugh on July 17 for an in-depth look at "Washington State Tax New Developments." Continue your journey with Art Werner on January 8 as he provides a comprehensive "New Year Tax Update," ensuring you're well-informed on the latest tax changes and implications for the upcoming year.
• Regulatory Insights and Updates: 
  Join us for a series of engaging sessions starting with "Know Thy Regulator" on August 14, where we will explore the inner workings of the Washington State Board of Accountancy. Next, delve into the "Annual Meeting Recap" on September 18 to hear the diverse perspectives and key takeaways from discussions with members, students, professionals, and educators. With our "WSCPA Year-End Update" on December 11, featuring Kimberly Scott, WSCPA President & CEO, and Mike Nelson, WSCPA Manager of Government Affairs, learn about the latest trends, regulations, and best practices that are shaping the profession in Washington and beyond.  
• Professional Development: 
  Engage in our curated series of popular sessions, starting with a panel on "Navigating Busy Season" on February 5, designed to enhance your leadership and operational strategies during peak times. Continue with "The Art of Feedback" on March 12, where you can master communication and mentoring skills. Conclude with "Cross Generational Divide" on September 25, exploring effective strategies for team cohesion and mental health across different age groups.*

Join Us 

As VP of Membership & Education, I aim for every hour you invest with us in this series to be an hour that adds value to your professional journey and personal growth. We invite you to join these sessions not just to fulfill your CPE requirements, but also to gain insights that go beyond the technical aspects of your profession. 

*Please note: Due to the live nature of our event lineup and potential speaker conflicts, course offerings are subject to change. We recommend checking our website for the most up-to-date information to ensure you have the latest details.