I’ve spent the last three months meeting with profession leaders to understand the opportunities to positively impact the profession, their business objectives and how the NJCPA can help position them for success moving forward. I thank those of you who have shared your candid insights with me and look forward to continuing the conversations.

• Let’s focus on what’s positive. The pipeline challenge is multifaceted, but what’s clear is the passion for the profession. As CliftonLarsonAllen assurance manager and NJCPA Emerging Leaders Council Vice Chair Joe Hunt, CPA, says in the latest issue of New Jersey CPA, he’d stress to aspiring CPAs that they will have the potential to make a profound difference in someone’s life. 
• The other big issue leaders are thinking about is upskilling, particularly with soft skills. According to a recent IBM study of 3,000 global C-suite leaders across 28 countries, “Looking to the future, executives are more focused on developing people skills, with time management and prioritization, collaboration and communications topping the list.” 
• The consensus is that artificial intelligence (AI) won’t replace people, but people who use AI will replace people who don’t. According to the IBM study, as AI continues to evolve, its effects will likely intensify, including at the managerial and executive ranks.  

As a new season approaches us, I would like to wish you a happy autumn! I look forward to the changing colors of the falling leaves, and pumpkin spice, and hope to see you at one of our events.

We have a full slate of networking and in-person events this fall beginning with our Atlantic/Cape May Chapter’s Current Issues Update on Sept. 13, Hudson Chapter’s AI/Bitcoin session on Sept. 19 and the Emerging Leaders and Hudson Chapter Happy Hour on Sept. 21. View and register for these and other chapter events at njcpa.org/chapters.  

I’m optimistic about our exciting journey ahead. We’ll continue to work with a sense of urgency to accelerate our strategic goals and directional initiatives.    

Thank you for your dedication and support of your Society. We welcome your feedback.